Full text of "The potentialities of revegetating and utilizing agronomic species on strip mined areas in Illinois"

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THE POTENTIALITIES OF REVEGETATING AND UTILIZING
AGRONOMIC SPECIES ON STRIP MINED AREAS

UA "V£ PS/ty n P „
IN ILLINOIS.. ^turelU™?

'LiBlARV

A PROGRESS REPORT
COVERING THE FIRST, YEAR OF Y.'ORK ON A COOPERATIVE INVESTIGATION

CONDUCTED BY
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

AND
ILLINOIS COAL STRIPPERS ASSOCIATION. /

NOTE

The agreement covering this investigation provides
that:- "No account of a cooperative research project shall
be published by the sponsor or by any other agency, except
upon approval of the division of the University, or head of
the department in which the work is being done."

Permission for the reproduction of this report has
been granted with the understanding that it is to be released
for the confidential information of members of Illinois Coal
Strippers Association only, and not to be quoted or released
for publication.

THE LIBRARY OF THE

JUN 1 9 1S51

HNIVFI^ITY pf ILL1NCW

«-< Telephone Central 8652

ILLINOIS COAL STRIPPERS ASSOCIATION

230 NORTH MICHIGAN AVENUE
CHICAGO 1, ILLINOIS

VILLIAM H. COOKE JAMES W. BRISTOW

PRESIDENT SECRETARY. TREASURER

CARL T. HAYDEN
VICE PRESIDENT

FOREWORD

To Members of Illinois Coal Strippers Association.

Gentlemen:

Successful experiments in converting spoil banks to profitable
stock range pioneered by Messrs. A. H. Truax and Byron Somers on land
mined by Truax-Traer Coal Company near Canton, Illinois, have shown
that -where top soils on spoil banks are adaptable, the establishment of
stock range is the most economical and most highly productive method of
returning mined land to productivity.

In 1945 a number of our companies, encouraged by the success
of Messrs. Truax and Somers, seeded large areas of their spoil banks
with grass and legumes. The varying and sometimes discouraging results
obtained, indicated that the successful development of pastures on the
widely varying top soils encountered throughout the state, and sometimes
within the same mining operation, was a problem for scientists in the
fields of agronomy and animal husbandry. Furthermore, that large savings
in development costs could be made and better results obtained by oper-
ators desiring to rehabilitate their stripped holdings in this fashion,
if the problem were approached on a scientific basis.

In January, 1947, the President and Secretary of Illinois Coal
Strippers Association were authorized to enter into an agreement with
the Agricultural Experiment Station, University of Illinois, covering a
cooperative research project, estimated to require five years for com-
pletion, designed to thoroughly explore the subject and to develop the
highest potential uses of mined land, the types of forage grasses best
adapted to the soils and conditions encountered, and all other facts es-
sential to pasture and other forms of use for spoil banks.

The Central States Forest Experiment Station, U.S. Forest Ser-
vice, agreed to assist in the project by making available for analysis
several thousand soil samples collected by its employees engaged in a
study of forestation possibilities of spoil banks, and is also listed
as one of the cooperators.

The agreement with the University of Illinois, executed for a
one-year period beginning February 1, 1947, and renewable each year at
the option of Illinois Coal Strippers Association was again renewed for
a one-year period as of February 1, 1948. The cost of this project will
average about §5,800 annually.

- 1 -

The scope and plan of the project, and the obligations assumed
by the parte i pants, quoted from the agreement are as follows:

"ILLINOIS AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

Agronomy Project No
Forestry Project No

. 1003
. 1001

NAME:

OBJECT:

FUNDS:

LEADERS:

COOPERATORSi

Agronomic Land Use Research on Stripped Coal Lands
in Illinois.

The objectives of this project are to investigate
the potentialities of revegetating and utilizing
agronomic species on the strip mined areas in
Illinois.

Trust and State.

A. L. Lang, R. F. Fuelleman, J. N. Spaeth, and

F. C. Francis.

Advisory Committee: Dean H. P. Rusk, W. L. Burli-

son, F. C. Bauer, J. C. Hackleman, J. N. Spaeth,

J. W. Bristow, and Louis S. Weber.

Agronomist: Alten F. Grandt.

Illinois Coal Strippers Association.
U.S. Forest Service.

University of Illinois, Departments of Agronomy,
Forestry and Animal Husbandry.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM:

Figures indicate that there are at least 72,100 acres
of strippable coal lands in Illinois, of which approximately one-
half have already been mined. The development of strip mined areas
is first of all a land-use problem including costs and returns af-
fecting its revegetation. Revegetation is especially desirable be-
cause strip mining is generally looked upon by the public as seri-
ously affecting the local economy. Although this is not necessar-
ily true, the psychological and esthetic implications of large strip
mined areas in a community make it incumbent on the mining companies
to provide some means of utilization.

Owners recognizing their obligation to the public have
already taken steps to provide means for better use of the mined
areas. State and federal agencies have cooperated in reforestation,
wild-life management and recreational projects in some areas; how-
ever, little work on revegetation with forage species has been at-
tempted. The mining industry has expressed an interest in research
of an agronomic nature, involving the establishment of forage species
on mined areas, and has appropriated the sum of $6,000 for research.
The following problems will be investigated:

1. The physical and chemical characteristics of
the soils in the various mine areas of the state.

- 2 -

2. Forage speoies already established by either
artificial or natural means.

3« Adaptation of speoies with respect to:-

a. Soil reaction.

b. Mineral content of the soil.

c. Physical structure.

d . CI imate .

e. Moisture.

f . Time and method of seeding.

4. Adaptation of species as affected by soil
amendments :-

a. Correction of soil reaction.

b. Mineral deficiencies corrected or

balanced.

c. Physical structure as changed by

mining operations.

d. Moisture and erosion qualities as

affected by mulching.

5. Forage yields and quality as determined by:-

a. Weight of forage.

b. Chemical composition.

c. Botanical composition.

d. Animal gains.

e. Observations.

6. Economic interpretations :-

a. Methods and feasibility of forage species

establishment.

b. Costs of establishment.

c. Accessibility after establishment.

d. Financial returns.

e. Evaluation.

7« Dissemination of information: -
a. Radio - local.
b» News items - local.

c. Circulars.

d. Scientific publications.

e. Bulletins.

PLAN OF PROCEDURE:

The various departments of the Illinois Agricultural
Experiment Station will be responsible for those phases of this
project which come within their spheres of interest.

A. Since the preliminary reconnaissance will be worked
out by the U.S. Forest Service, the Department of Forestry of the
University of Illinois will coordinate the information and data made
available by the U.S. Forest Service, which has already begun work.
This includes mapping of stripped lands and preliminary classifi-
cation on the basis of reaction, chemical composition, physical

- 3 -

structure, etc.

1. The U.S. Forest Service also plans re-
connaissance on ground cover with respect to for-
age crops. In so far as possible, the agronomist
in charge of the detailed work of this project
will cooperate in that survey.

B. The Agronomy Department will be responsible for:

1. Conducting such further surveys as are
necessary to determine the nature, quantity, and
quality of forage crops now established. These
species will be located on appropriate maps, prop-
erly labeled with respect to the nature of the en-
vironment. Records of previous seedings and their
disposition will be recorded. VJhere any records of
animal production are available notations will be
made. All records will be kept separately by owner-
ship, counties, townships, sections and subdivisions
of sections.

' 2. Species adaptation studies will be estab-
lished on spoil banks representative of the various
soil classifications and climatic ranges. Seedings,
alone and in mixtures, will be made of all species
reasonably suited to the area to determine:

a. The most favorable mixtures and pure seedings
for rapid growth, survival and longevity.

b. Specific persistence and aggressiveness.

c. Tolerance for soil reaction, mineral content
and texture.

d. Speed of establishment in relation to physio-
graphic and ecological factors.

3. Soil amendments will be used in connection
with forage adaptation tests and in relation to basic
information secured for the specific area concerning
reaction, mineral content, physical structure, moisture
relationships, and erosion problems. This will require:

a. Soil testing for acidity and plant nutrient content.

b. Corrective measures on acid or alkaline areas.

c. Supplying nutrient deficiencies or balancing super-
sufficiencies.

d. Modification of physioal structure by mining oper-
ations or other artificial means.

e. Controlling moisture relationships and erosion
influences by the use of mulching materials.

4. Determinations of forage species, production
and quality will bp made by several criteria, including:

a. Measurements of forage yields in terms of dry matter
on established plots or fields. Sampling must be

- 4 -

adequate for accurate determinations.

b. Chemical analysis of forage species samples ob-
tained from various locations and from established
experimental areas will be made. This will supple-
ment information made available through the recon-
naissance survey.

c. Botanical analysis will be made as a part of the
yield determinations chiefly as a basis for cata-
loging sources of contributions of chemical com-
ponents and also for animal gains.

5. 'While it is expected that each area owner
will need to interpret the practical applications of
this research into his own economy, nevertheless, in-
formation will be secured on:

a. Methods of forage species establishment and their
utility.

b. Costs involved in such establishment.

c. Useability or accessibility after establishment.

6. Results secured by this investigation will be
made available insofar as their practicability warrants,
through local radio and news items and by circulars,
bulletins, and scientific publications.

C. The Animal Husbandry Department will, after the
vegetational phases have been developed, be responsible
for:

1. Suggesting the type of livestock for pasturing
experimental areas.

2. Measurements of animal weights as a method of
determining forage yields.

3. Costs and returns attending livestock oper-
ations •

D. The Illinois Coal Strippers Association, through
its membership, will provide equipment, seeds, and such
manpower on each experimental area sufficient to assist,
facilitate, and supplement the work of the agronomist.
The above will be in addition to the budgetary item as
listed under 'approximate cost.'

To carry out the details of this project will require
the efforts of one full-time man well trained in agronomy retained
by the University. In addition, agronomy staff members responsible
will need to give considerable time to the project in an advisory
and direotive capacity.

Office space, supplies and equipment, as well as labor-
atory spaoe and equipment, will be supplied by the Agronomy Department.

Transportation facilities (car) and travel expense will
be a large item in the conduct of the field work.

- 5 -

Assistance in making chemical analyses will be need-
ed In the form of student or graduate student help."

A report prepared by the University of Illinois covering accom-
plishments made on the project during the first year of operation is
herewith transmitted for information of our member companies.

Secretary-Treasurer

Chicago, Illinois
March 10, 1948.

- 6 -

AGRONOMIC LAND USE RESEARCH ON AREAS STRIP MINED
FOR COAL IN ILLINOIS.

According to the data published by the Illinois Coal Strippers 1 As-
sociation 32,056 acres of land were mined by association member mines in Illi-
nois as of June 1, 1946. An additional 40,034 acres is held by member com-
panies to be mined, giving a total of 72,090 acres of land. An analysis of
soil cropping potentials derived from the Soil Survey Division of the Univer-
sity of Illinois indicates that about 16.8 percent of these holdings is high
grade farm land; 35.2 percent is of medium grade; and the remaining 48 percent
consists of forested, rough, or eroded soil not adaptable to general farming
purposes. There are 31,600,000 acres of land in the State of Illinois now
used for agricultural and farming or forestry purposes; of which less than
one-fourth of one percent will be strip mined.
Location of Present Day Industry in Illinois t

Strip coal land mined or held for future mining in Illinois is lo-
cated in twenty-two counties with major operations being carried on in fourteen
counties. The largest mining areas are located in Perry and Fulton counties,
in which 5.0 percent and 2.7 percent respectively, of the total county areas
are mineable by stripping methods. These general areas are shown on Fig. 1
i/vhich also shows the approximate locations of experimental seeding plots es-
tablished for study under this project.
Description of Mined Areas:

The physical and chemical properties of the spoil material are dom-
inated by the character of the geologic strata from which the spoil is derived.
In southern Illinois the amount of loess in the overburden varies from an
average of approximately 12 feet in St. Clair to less than 3 to 4 feet in Saline
County. Glacial till or drift lies under the loess and varies in thickness

- 7 -

AGRONOMY DEPARTMENT, UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, URBANA

«•

1 ■■

2 -

3 .. T-T(ElkvfcTe)"

k -

5 ■

6 I

Sahara
Delta

9U L Little Slater

U.E.-FiderVy
Pyramid
Southwestern
Midwest Sadiap
Solar

10 - Morgan

Hi. U.E.-Buckhart

12- U.E.-Cuoa
1;- T-T (Fiatt Nc|.2)

13- Falrview
1>- M.E.-Eapatee

14- Little John
17- M.E. -Atkinson
1Q - Morrls-Ho rth^rn
i§- Northern

20- ™»*yft IN0 , S

m to

31449— M3 79

Fig. 1~ Location of Experimental Plots on Strip Mined Coal Lands of Illinois.

- 8 -

from 5 feet to 15 feet in some areas. Soft mud shales and rock make up the
remainder of the strata overlying the coal seam. In areas where the percent-
age of loess in the spoils is highest, the physical condition of the spoil
bank material is most friable and from this standpoint the better material on
which to get grasses and legumes established. There are some areas -where
pyritic roof shales are present in sufficient quantities to form localized acid

spots.

In western Illinois the amount of loess averages 8 to 10 feet in

thickness throughout the area studied. In a few places carbonates have been
found at a depth of 6 to 8 feet. The pH of spoil material in this area gener-
ally tests above pH 7.0. The spoil banks are predominantly friable and hold
moisture readily.

In northern Illinois the overburden is composed largely of sands and
shales. These mud shales often weather into heavy impermeable plastic materials
which give rise to high runoff and deep gully erosion. Revegetation of such
areas is generally slow and may require time for weathering to change the ad-
verse physical conditions to a more favorable state for plant growth. There
are other areas in this territory, however, where excellent growth of sweet
clover is flourishing.
Soil Analysis;

Table 1 shows the average amounts of soil nutrients, p-H, available
phosphorus and available potassium, of spoil bank material. Samples were selec-
ted at random from the experimental plots and tests were made by the soil test-
ing laboratory at the University of Illinois. The average p-H of the 684 sam-
ples tested was 6.8, the average available phosphorus content was 122 pounds,
and the average available potassium was found to be 166 pounds per acre. The
plots located in southern Illinois are lower, on the average, in plant nutri-
ents than the overall average, while those in western Illinois are substantially

- 9 -

Table 1

Soil Analysis of Spoi

1 name

toa-teni

IIS.

Plot locations

County

Samples

pH*
Av.

P*
Av.

Notes

No.

Av.

Southern Illinois:

Sahara

Saline

4.9

107

188

S. S. rock.

Delta

Williamson

7.0

108

Truax-Traer, Elkville

Jackson

6.3

155

Local acid spots.

United Elec. Fidelity

Perry

6.0

124

198

Local acid spots.

Pyramid

Perry

7.4

123

Calc rock.

Southwestern

Randolph

7.3

137

Calc rock.

Midwest Radiant

St. Clair

175

7.1

116

131

Sub-total -

336

6.57

149

Western Illinois:

Solar

Schuyler

6.8

171

224

High % Loess.

Little Sister

Fulton

7.2

114

145

In western 111.

Morgan

Fulton

7.1

178

230

United Elec, Buckhart

Fulton

7.7

143

United Elec ., Cuba

Fulton

7.6

140

143

Truax-Traer, Fiatt

Fulton

7.9

147

145

Fairview

Fulton

6.0

128

186

Mid. Elec. Rapatee

Fulton & Knox

7.4

164

180

Little John

Knox

7.3

167

164

Sub-total -

229

7.2

145

173

Northern Illinois:

Mid. Elec, Atkinson

Bureau

7.4

165

192

Shaly material.

northern Illinois

Grundy

6.9

166

219

Shaly material.

Morris

Grundy

3.1

144

Highly acid.

Wilmington

Will

7.7

161

Compact & plastic.

Sub-total -

119

6.3

118

179

TOTAL -

684

6.8

122

166

*pH - 7.0, neutral; P - 92+ lbs/a, high; K - 150-200 lbs/a high.

- 10 -

higher. In northern Illinois the spoil bank material is more variable. On
plots located on property of the Morris Coal and Mining Company the average
p-H is 3.1, low enough to be toxic to most plants.

Caution should be used against placing too much emphasis on the aver-
ages obtained because of the extreme variability of the spoil bank material.
In small local spots the p-H may be low enough to be toxic to plants, and little
or no vegetation is found on these localized spots-. In other areas, such as
sandy spots the available potassium may be less than 40 pounds per acre which
would result in poor plant growth. However, in general the soil analysis would
indicate very favorable planting sites for most grasses and legumes.
Revegetation Project;

The objectives of this project are to investigate the potentialities
of revegetating and utilizing agronomic species on the strip mined areas in
Illinois. Revegetation is especially desirable because strip mining is gener-
ally looked upon by the public as seriously affecting the local economy. Al-
though this is not necessarily true, the psychological and aesthetic impli-
cations of large strip mined areas in a community make it incumbent on the min-
ing companies to provide some means of utilization. Judging from economio re-
turns realized by owners who are utilizing spoil banks, these areas may be con-
sidered an asset to the community rather than a liability. It would appear to
be a lost resource if they are not utilized to their fullest advantage.

Funds to begin work on this project were made available to the Uni-
versity February 1, 1947. Because of the extremely cold, wet spring, much
difficulty was encountered in trying to make spring seedings. Difficulty in
locating readily accessible areas on spoil banks for the establishment of ex-
perimental plots also prevented making extensive spring seedings. Nevertheless,
a number of experimental plots were established, and a number of spring seed-
ings were made.

- 11 -

The early summer was spent in touring the various mined areas with
Mr. Louis Weber, Land Use Engineer of the Illinois Coal Strippers* Association,
who arranged for meetings with company officials on whose properties more ex-
perimental plots are to be located. Observations were made of species already
growing on spoil banks and results recorded. Approximately 1,000 plots of
various sizes were staked out on areas selected for experimental sites.
Plot Design and Field Methods;

Experimental plots have been laid out on 21 different locations in

14 counties to determine the adaptation of legumes and grasses on various types
of spoil materials over the climatic range of Illinois. Forage species are be-
ing tested alone and in associations of grasses and legumes in an effort to de-
termine the most desirable method of obtaining a satisfactory establishment.

The plot design employed for the non-leveled spoil banks is shown
in Fig. 2A. This design is similar to that used by Tyner*, et al, in their
work in West Virginia. The grasses are seeded up and down the slopes to cover
at least two complete spoil banks wherever possible. The legumes are seeded
across the grass plots and run approximately parallel to the ridges and valleys.
The species seeded are randomized in all cases and this plot is duplicated on
all properties. This type of arrangement makes possible the study of 64 grass-
legume associations. Where the forage species are seeded alone, the plot is

15 feet wide and 145.2 feet long, giving a plot size of one-twentieth of an
acre.

The fertility study consists of adding nitrogen in various amounts to
grass plots. This design is shown in Fig. 2A by the grass plot seeded alone
as exemplified by big bluestem. No fertility treatments are carried out on
legume plots at this time since the soil tests show adequate plant nutrients
in most cases with the exception of nitrogen, which inoculated legumes can get
from the atmosphere. Work of this nature will be investigated further.

- 12 -

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Pig. 2-A. — The plot design used in studying specie adaptation,
alone and in association*

- 13 -

The grasses and legumes are seeded by hand with a horn seeder. Fig. 3
shows the actual seeding operation. The two white string lines show the width
of the plot and the method of giving plot boundary while the seeding operation
is being done. It is realized that this method is not 100 percent accurate, but
it was a practical way of seeding the plot without getting too far off the desig-
nated area.

The forage species used on these spoil banks are given in Table 2.
It is realized that some of the species may not be praotical for the owner to
use, but in this study an attempt is made to get these species established to
obtain observations of the comparative aggressiveness and persistence of the
various species. In some areas obtaining a ground cover of any material is an
important factor from an aesthetic viewpoint.

Plots have also been established on leveled areas and on strike-off
areas. These plots are small, being l/400 and 1/200 acres in size (Fig 2B) .
A comparison will be made between the two types of plots in regard to oercent
germination, percent growth of seedling to maturity, ground cover, yields, and
other factors. These plots are shown in Fig. 4-8. Leveled plots are located
in southern Illinois on Midwest Radiant Corporation property, in St. Clair
County; in western Illinois on Midland Electric Coal Corporation, Rapatee Mine,
in Knox County; and in northern Illinois on Northern Illinois Coal Corporation
property, in Grundy County. "Strike-off" plots are located on Midwest Radiant
Corporation property in St. Clair County. It is hoped that strike-off plots
can also be located and established in western and northern Illinois.

Plots were also located on drag-line leveled spoils in Saline County
on Sahara Coal Company property on which second-year sweet clover had been grow-
ing and had gone to seed. Fourteen grasses have been seeded in duplicate on
this location. It is thought that the sweet clover has formed enough humus and
collected nitrogen for the support of these grasses. More plots will be

- 14 -

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The plot design used on leveled areas and for
different levels of nitrogen applications on wheat
and rye, etc. Plots l/400 acre. (Fig. 2-B)

— -«tw

Photograph showing seeding operation. The lines
in center of picture mark boundary of the plot be-
ing seeded. (Fig. 3)

- 15 -

Table 2.

Common Name

Kentucky bluegrass
Canada bluegrass
Redtop
Timothy-
Reeds canary grass

Orchard grass
Bromegrass
Meadow fescue
Alta fescue
Chewings fescue

Creeping fescue
Ryegrass
Bermuda grass
Dallas grass
Crested wheat grass

Slender wheat grass
Western wheat grass
Blue grama
Side-oat grama
Big blue stem

Little blue stem
Buffalo grass
Indian grass
Tall oat grass
Canadian wild rye

Michael's grass
Rhodes grass
Switch grass
Meadow foxtail
Millets

Forage Species To Be Seeded.

Grasses

Botanical Name

Poa pratensis
Poa compressa
Agrostis alba
Phlem pratense
Phragmites communis

Dactylis glomerata
Bromus inermis leyss
Festuca pratensis
Festuca pratensis var, alta
Festuca rubra

Festuca rubra var, creeping
Lolium perenne
Cynodon daotylum
Paspalum notatum
Agropyron cristatum

Agropyron tenerium
Agropyron smithii
Bouteloua gracilis
Bouteloua curtipendula
Andropogon furcatus

Andropogon scoparius
Buchlae dactyloides
Sorghastrum nutans
Arrhenatherum elatius
Elymus canadensis

Chloris gay an a
Panicum virgatum
Alcopecuris eliator
Setaria sp.

Sudan
Sweet sudan

Love grass

"M !l pasture mix

Fields pasture mix

Sorghum halapense
(Cross) Sorghum halapense

x S. vulgare
Eragrostis curvula

Wheat

Oats

Rye

Calamagrostis epigea
Triticum aestivum
Avena sativa
Seoale cereale

- 16 -

Table 2, (cont'd) - Forage Species To Be Seeded

Common Name

Legumes

Botanical Name

Alfalfa

Sweet clover - yellow
Sweet clover - white
Hubam clover
Spanish sweet clover

Medicago sativa
Melilotus officinalus
Melilotus alba
Melilotus annula
Melilotus suaveolus

Lespedeza - common
Lespedeza - Korean
Lespedeza - Kobe
Lespedeza - Serioea
Mammoth clover

Lespedeza striata
Lespedeza stipulacea
Lespedeza striata var.
Lespedeza sericea
Trifolium pratense var,
perenne.

Alsike clover
Crimson clover
Subterranean olover
Strawberry clover
Yfhite Dutch olover

Trifolium hybridum
Trifolium incarnatum
Trifolium subterraneum
Trifolium fragiferum
Trifolium repens

Ladino clover
Hop clover
Alyoe clover
Austrian winter pea
Birdsfoot trefoil

Trifolium repens var,
Trifolium procumbens
Trifolium alyce
Pisum sativa var.
Lotus corniculatus

latum

Big broadleaf trefoil

Yellow trefoil

Kudzu

Lupines

Lappacea

Lotus uliginosus
Medicago lupulina
Pueraria chunbergiana
Lupinus sp.
Trifolium lappaceaum

Soybeans
Red clover
Sanfoin
Crown vetch
Button clover
Persian clover

Glycine max.
Trifolium pratense
Onobrychis vicioefolia
Vicia sp.

Medicago oebicularis
Trifolium reseysinatum

- 17 -

Character of material after leveling, showing plots
staked out in background. Midland Electric Coal Cor-
poration Rapatee mine. (Fig. 4)

- 18 -

Northern Illinois Coal Corporation. Leveled area - wheat plots
with various amounts of nitrogen fertilizer added. (Fig. 5)

- 19 -

f. # jF

A spoil ridge after "strike-off" operation has been
completed. (Fig« 6)

- 20 -

* *V. ft

»*.

.- •*

» ►

•• * V

a. **.

j •<

* >

> * • -n .-...• , .■-

;#tt"

W •

Strike-off area seeded to rye and wheat. (Fig. 7)

- 21 -

Ilk-,

jl\y '4t

Rye and v/heat growing on strike-off ridge. (Fig. 8)

- 22 -

established this next summer on spoils on which sweet clover has been growing
the second year so that this type of association can be studied more thorough-

iy.

A mixture of five legumes (alfalfa, yellow sweet clover, alsike,
mammoth clover, and birdsfoot trefoil) with perennial ryegrass was seeded under
trees on plots established by the Central States Forest Experiment Station on
Little John Coal Company and Wilmington Coal Company properties. These plots
are 300 feet long and 112 feet wide, making approximately 0.8 acres. This area
covers six ridges or hills, giving a total of 12 slopes with six northerly and
six southerly exposures.
Results and Discussions:

Because of the limited amount of spring seeding accomplished, yield

data and chemical composition of forage species are very limited at this time.

1. Grass -Legume Mixture On
Little John Coal Company, Knox County (Fig. 2C)

A mixture of

ryegrass - 5 lbs. mammoth clover - 1^ lbs.

alfalfa - 2 lbs. alsike clover - 1 lb.

yellow sweet clover - 2vi lbs. birdsfoot trefoil - 1 lb»

making a total of 13 pounds seeded April 17, 1947 on two 0.8-acre plots on
which trees had been planted. The legumes were inooulated, mixed together,
and seeded with a horn seeder. The ryegrass was spread by hand. On June 9,
1947 seedling counts were made. A one-foot square was used. Four areas were
seleoted at random on both plots. On plot 9, 38 percent of the ryegrass seeded
germinated and grew, and 44 percent of the legumes grew. On plot 10, 56 per-
cent of the ryegrass and 30 percent of the legumes that were seeded grew.
Later observations were very striking. The ryegrass grew rapidly and seemed
to predominate; however, a good stand of legumes was present the entire summer.
A thicker stand and better ground cover was obtained on north exposure slopes
than on southerly exposure slopes. It was also noted that the top two or

- 23 -

(Jig. 2-C) Plot Design of Tree-Gras 8- Legume Mixture

112*

T r

' I

I I

i .

I i

I J

III'

Valle7

Valley

17 rove of trees

- 24 -

three feet of the peaks were not covered. Yield samples taken in August gave
a yield of 4.34 tons of forage per acre. Not enough yield samples were taken
to make this an accurate figure » "but it gives an indication of what yields
may "be expected. The greater percentage of forage was ryegrass. The ryegrass
had already gone to seed and was beginning to dry when the samples were cut.

From the above data it will be noted that less than one-half of the
seed that was seeded germinated and established itself. Because of the slope,
in all probability much of the seed v>ras washed off the slopes before the seeds
could germinate and become anchored. Thus it seems evident that a heavier seed-
ing should be used than that normally recommended in farming practices; also,
there is probably an ideal time to seed the species to result in a minimum
washing away of the seed. This factor is important. Alternate freezing and
thawing will aid in partially burying the seed and thus hold them better so
probably seeding should be made earlier than these plots v/ere seeded.

2. Or ass -Legume Mixture on
Wilmington Coal Mining Company, Will County.

On the Wilmington Coal Mining Company plots where the same mixture
was seeded, the results are quite opposite from those obtained on the Little
John property. Seedling counts made show a variation in the percentage germ-
ination. Plot 27 showed 90 percent ryegrass and 26 percent of the legumes
germinated, while on plot 28, 26 percent of the ryegrass and 6 percent of the
legumes germinated. It was noted, however, that many of the seedling roots were
exposed. The roots could not penetrate the compact surface material of the
spoils. Later observations were that the legumes had died out completely, and
in some of the gullies a few sprigs of ryegrass were struggling for their ex-
istence, but it had all disappeared on other places. Scattered clumps of
Russian thistle are growing on these plots.

The physical condition of the materials exposed by the stripping

- 25 -

operation on these plots is very compact and plastic, and -undoubtedly is the
factor limiting the establishment of a satisfactory stand of forage species.
The soil tests show sufficient amounts of available phosphorus and potassium
and a favorable pH for the growth of legumes. Perhaps a period of weathering
is required to change the physical condition to such extent that grasses or
legumes can be established. More work is being carried on in these areas to
further study these problems.

The extent of gully erosion that occurs on this type of spoil bank is
shown in Fig. 9. It v.dll be noticed that the slope of the banks is still quite
steep-
s' Kudzu Adaptation.

Kudzu crowns were planted on plots in we stern and southern Illinois.
Very few crowns lived through the summer. It is believed that the cuttings
dried out too much in shipping and were not satisfactory stock for planting.
More crowns will be planted this spring to determine the adaptation of Kudzu
to the spoil banks.

4. Fertility Plots (Fig. 2-D)

Fertility studies with respect to nitrogen were conducted on Midwest
Radiant Corporation property with four grasses, — orchard grass, meadow fescue,
sweet sudan, and white wonder millet. Where no nitrogen was added, the grass
came up in scattered spots but soon died. T/hen 120 pounds of elemental nitro-
gen or Uramon was applied per acre, scattered spots of thick, dense stands were
secured. The nitrogen increased the weed growth to such an extent that in some
places the grass was probably crowded out. It v/as noted that this nitrogen
treatment increased the size of Cottonwood leaves, in some cases quadrupling
their size. Fig. 10 shows the effect of the nitrogen on weed growth.

Samples were collected from these plots and chemical analyses will be
run. The stand v/as so very spotted that yield data were not taken. The banks

- 26 -

^£i

•*

Photo showing nature and extent of gully erosion on
spoil banks of Wilmington Coal & Mining Company. (Fig. 9)

- 27 -

Top of Spoil Ridge

nitro,

•H

o
3

4»

o
4»

o
u

4»

® i

u '

•P

«H

-19.2-

38.

Fig. 2-D. Plot design of fertility studies with five

grasses on Midwest Radiant Corporation property.

- 28 -

Effect of nitrogen on weed growth on Midwest Radi-
ant Corporation property. (Fig* 10)

- 29 -

in this area were very steep, averaging 56 to 60 percent slope, and gully

erosion was so severe that seeds were washed away before they could become

established.

5. Fall Seedings of Species Alone
and in Association.

Fall seedings were made in southern Illinois on the following proper-
ties: Midwest Radiant Corporation, St. Clair County; Sahara Coal Company,
Saline County; Southwestern Illinois Coal Corporation, Randolph County; and on
the Truax-Traer Coal Company, Jackson County. Excellent prospects of the species
seeded were observed on Southwestern and Midwest Radiant properties, and on the
northern exposure of the plots on the Truax-Traer Coal company property in
Jackson County.

In western Illinois seedings were made on the Little Sister property
on a heavy growth of weeds. Because of the very heavy growth of weeds, very
few seedlings of the species seeded could be found this fall. Fall seedings
were also completed on the Little John Coal Company property.

In northern Illinois plots were seeded this fall on the Northern Illi-
nois Coal Corporation and Vfilmington Coal Mining Corporation properties. , In
checking over the areas seeded, no seedlings were found. The fall was exception-
ally dry, and perhaps some growth will take place in the spring. Fig. 11 shows
the nature of spoil bank material in this area on Northern Illinois Coal Corpor-
ation property.

Plots were also established on leveled areas and on strike-off areas.
'.Vheat and rye were seeded and different applications of nitrogen were applied.
Observations have been recorded and studies will be continued. At this time it
can be said that the wheat and rye germinated satisfactorily and in most cases
went into the winter period in good condition. Forage species are also seeded
on these areas.

- 30 -

Nature of spoil bank material on Northern Illinois Coal Corporation
property. (Fig* 11)

- 31 -

Plans for the Coming Yeart

A field trip is being planned on which farm advisers of counties in
which strip mining is being carried on, personnel from the various companies
interested in establishing satisfactory forage pastures, and other interested
persons will be invited. They will have an opportunity to observe the results
obtained on the plots established and perhaps observe what private individuals
have accomplished, and thus get information as to what use the spoil banks can
be made.

Plans are being made to measure animal weights as a method of de-
termining forage yields. Comparisons will also be made of forage quality and
yields on (1) spoil banks, (2) improved pastures, and (3) average pastures of
an area. This will be carried on in different climatic ranges, such as Western
Illinois (Fulton County) and Southern Illinois (Perry County).

Seedings will be made this winter and spring on the remainder of the
1,000 odd plots not seeded this fall. Native grasses, as Big Bluestem, Indian
grass, etc., will be seeded in January and February. The common grasses and
legumes will be seeded in February, March, and April.

Samples of forage will be taken to determine the chemical composition
of the forage species grown. Adequate randomized samples will be collected to
determine the yields of forage obtained. The relative percentages of various
grasses, legumes, and foreign material will be estimated. This type of work is
to be carried on as a follow-up to last year»s seedings and to seedings made in
the fall and spring of 1947-48.

♦Tyner, E. H. The reclamation of the strip-mined coal lands of West Virginia
with forage species. Soil Sci. Soc. Amer. Proc. 10:429-436. 1945.

- 32 -

1948/49

THE POTENTIALITIES OF REVEGETATING AND UTILIZING
AGRONOMIC SPECIES ON STRIP MINED AREAS

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINO 3
AGRICULTURE LIBRAR '

IN ILLINOIS.

A PROGRESS REPORT
COVERING THE SECOND YEAR OF WORK ON A COOPERATIVE INVESTIGATION

CONDUCTED BY
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

AND
ILLINOIS COAL STRIPPERS ASSOCIATION.

NOTE .

The agreement covering this investigation provides
that:- "No account of a cooperative research project shall be
published by the sponsor or by any other agency, except upon
approval of the division of the University, or head of the de-
partment in which the work is being done."

THE LIBRARY OF THF.

JUN 1 9 1951

iiNIVWT/ rt !' UNO'S

Telephone CEntral 6-3060

WILLIAM H. COOKE

PRESIDENT

CARL T. HAYDEN

VICE PRESIDENT

ILLINOIS COAL STRIPPERS ASSOCIATION

307 NORTH MICHIGAN AVENUE
CHICAGO 1, ILLINOIS

JAMES W. BRISTOW

SECRETARY-TREASURER

FOREWORD

To Members of Illinois Coal Strippers Association.

Gentlemen:

On February 1, 1°1*7, Illinois Coal Strippers Associ-
ation entered into an agreement with the Agricultural Experi-
ment Station, University of Illinois, covering a project of co-
operative research into the possibilities of revegetating and
utilizing grasses and legumes on strip mined areas for stock
range and other purposes.

This project estimated to require five years of re-
search in order to arrive at sound conclusions, is now entering
upon its third year. A progress report covering the first year
of operation issued on March 19, 19li8 dealt principally with the
proposed scope and plan of attack on the problem; a survey of
spoil bank soils found throughout the state, and preliminary re-
ports on a number of seeding projects.

The report herewith presented covers the second year
of operation. It presents further information on spoil bank soil
materials, and comparisons of such materials with surface soils
found on adjoining land; the adaptation of various forage species
to spoil bank soils j the results of preliminary studies of com-
parative gains made by animals pastured on spoil banks with those
pastured on undisturbed blue grass and highly improved grass-
legume pasture.

In addition to continuing work along the above general
lines, research in the coming year will be extended to include
the measurement of yields per acre, chemical analyses and feed
value of various forage species grown on spoil banks in order
to determine the carrying capacity of this type of pasture.

March 15, 1949.

ecretary-Treasurer

AGRONOMY PROJECT.

NUMBER: 1003 - Second Annual Report.

TITLE: Agronomic Land Use Research on the Mined Areas

of the Stripped Coal Lands of Illinois.

OBJECT: The objectives of the project are to investi-
gate the potentialities of revegetating
and utilizing agronomic species on the strip-
mined areas in Illinois.

LEADERS: A. L. Lang, R. F. Fuelleman, J. N. Spaeth, and

F. C. Francis.

Advisory Committee: -

Dean H. P. Rusk
W. L. Burlison
F. C. Bauer
J. C. Hackleman
J. N. Spaeth
James W. Bristow
Louis S. Weber.

Agronomist - Alten F. Grandt.

AGRONOMIC LAND USE RESEARCH
ON STRIPPED C OA L LANDS IN ILLINOIS.
By Alten F. Grandt.*

This is the second annual report of progress made on Agronomy
Project 1003, a cooperative research project of the University of Illi-
nois Agricultural Experiment Station and the Illinois Coal Strippers
Association covering an investigation of the potentialities of revegetat-
ing and utilizing agronomic species on strip-mined areas in Illinois.

Some of the material contained in the progress report cover-
ing the first year of -work will be repeated and in other instances the
first progress report will he referred to.

The following problems are being investigated;

1. The physical and chemical characteristics of the soils

in the various mine areas of the state.

2. Forage species already established by either artificial

or natural means.

3. Adaptation of forage species alone and in mixtures.

4. Adaptation of forage species as affected by soil amendments.

5. Determination of forage yields and quality.

6. Economics of establishing and utilizing spoil banks for

pasture.

Note * — Special Research First Assistant, Soil Experiment Fields and
Crop Production, Department of Agronomy, University of Illinois
Agricultural Experiment Station, Urbana.

The author acknowledges with thanks the assistance, advice,
and encouragement received from Mr. Louis S. Weber, Land Use
Engineer, Illinois Coal Strippers Association, in conducting these
investigations. Without his help some phases of this work could
not have been accomplished.

1 -

SO IL STUDIES ;

STRATIOGRAPHIC RECORDS;

One method of determining the land use of spoil banks is to
study the nature of the overburden above the coal beds. The material
which overlies the coal and goes to make up the spoil banks is highly
variable both in thickness and in character. It presents a complex
of pre-glacial, glacial, and post-glacial material, and no one profile
may be given as representative of the overburden within a single mine,
much less throughout the stripping fields of the state.

Figure 1 illustrates something of the nature and variations
of the strata commonly present. Table 1 shows the depth and percentage
of various strata of the overburden. The samples were taken from the
highwall in the vicinity where the experimental plots are located.
Where the percentage of the loess is high, as in western Illinois, pas-
ture establishment is potentially easier than on soils having smaller
percentages of loess. Where the quantity of rock is excessive a use
other than pasture should be made of such spoil banks. More preparatory
work, such as strike-off, can be done more economically on locations
where the rock is more limited.

In 14 counties in which studies of spoil banks are carried on
the topsoil and loess, as tested from highwall samples, had an average
pH of 6.4; 75 pounds per acre of available phosphorus; and 115 pounds
per acre available potassium. Loess is a very desirable soil material
because of its silty texture and in general high fertility level.

The glacial till is extremely variable. The Illinoian till
is highly leached in most cases and thus is low in plant nutrients.
The Wisconsin till is of a younger geologic age and is not highly leached,
The average pH of the till tested was 7.3 with 77 pounds of available

- 2 -

0-18

5-20'

3-34'

0-12

0-5

Top soil - variable.

Loess - depth related to nearness to Mississippi

and Illinois Rivers.
CaC03 present at greater depths.
Sand present in Kankakee River watershed.

Glacial till - very variable -
CaCOg present in Wisconsin till,

Shale - gray to blue - generally hard and
well-bedded weathers rapidly v,rhen exposed.
Generally high in phosphorus and potassium.
pH variable - from 2*5 to 8*5.

Limestone - characteristic stratum above
No* 6 coal - variable.

Slaty shale - very irregular,

Coal.

Profile of the overburden showing the horizons commonly present
in Illinois strip mines. The figures at the left of the diagram repre-
sents, in feet, the extremes encountered in samples taken* (Fig* 1*)

- 3 -

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phosphorus, and 112 pounds of available potassium per acre.

The shales in the overburden were found to be high in avail-
able phosphorus and potassium with an average of 148 and 212 pounds per
acre respectively. In many instances, the amounts of each element
available was greater than could be tested by the photometer. The pH
of shales is generally very high. The average was found to be 7.1,
with some layers as high as 8.5. However, in some instances the pH was
as low as 3.5. A more thorough study of the shales will be made.

Another source of data concerning the nature of the overburden
would be the use of drill records. From such records predictions could
be made of the physical nature of the spoil bank material and an indi-
cation of potential land use. For example, where the percentage of
dense clay and soft mud shales is high the spoil banks upon weathering
will be very impermeable and subject to severe gully erosion. Such a
condition is prevalent in the northern Illinois area. Restricted infil-
tration and shallow rooting indicate that drouth is a serious factor in
establishing vegetation on this type of material. Soil moisture determ-
inations of the surfaoe material give further proof to this point.

The source of sulphur from which the toxic "acid spots" form
is not yet definitely known. By studying the stratiographic column, it
is hoped that more information on this problem can be obtained. Iron
pyrites and marcasite found in the roof coals and black shales is the
source of some, but certainly not all, of the sulphur. Croxton (1)
points to the shales as a possible source of the acid. This appears evi-
dent in that some layers samples in the highwall study revealed pH as
low as 3.5. Figure 2 shows acid spots on the spoil banks around which
no vegetation will grow. The dark appearing spots are high acidic.

Weathering and subsequent leaching will reduce the total sulphur

- 5 -

Acid spots on spoil banks in Saline County. The dark appearing spots
are highly acidic. It has been estimated that less than five percent
(5.0%) of all land strip-mined in the state, as of 1946*, is affected
by this toxic acid condition. (Fig* 2)

Central States Forestry Experiment Station - 1946

- 6 -

content of these acid spots. At present it is not known how long a per-
iod of time will be required to reduce the sulphur content to the point
where normal vegetative growth occurs.

SOIL TYPES BEING STRIPPED:

The type name, number and description, and the productive rat-
ing of some of the soils being stripped by each mine for the county are
listed in Appendix A. The area stripped was checked, by section, against
the recorded soil types published by the Illinois Soil Survey. Where
soil reports are available the percent of each type being stripped can
be determined.

Appendix B lists the average yield per acre of various crops
under different systems of management on some of the soil -types being
stripped. These yields should be correlated with the productive ratings
given for the soil types to determine the true agricultural value of the
soil type.

In connection with the yield data Appendix C gives the acre
values of crops and indexes for 1944-1947, on soil types listed, as de-
termined from soil experiment field data. This information is listed so
as to give a better understanding of the nature of the soil material be-
fore and after the stripping operation, and the readers attention is
specifically called to the data contained in these appendixes.

SOIL ANALYSIS OF SPOIL BANK MATERIAL;

Table 2 shows the average amounts of soil nutrients, (pH avail-
able phosphorus and available potassium), found in spoil bank material.
Samples were selected at random from the experimental plots and tests
were made by the soil testing laboratory at the University of Illinois.
The averages include samples collected in 1947 and 1948. Only minor

shifts in the averages resulted, so they would seem to be reliably

- 7 -

Table 2. SOIL ANALYSIS OF SPOIL BANK MATERIAL.

Acidity

Phos-

Potas-

No. of

p-E*

phorus

sium

Plot Locations.

County.

Samples.

Average .

lbs.*

Average.

lbs.*

Average.

Note.

Southern Illinois

Sahara

Saline

4.5

169

Shale ■+■
S. S. Rock.

Delta

■Williamson

6.2

110

T-T, Elkville

Jackson

6.3

155

Local acid

(Truax-Traer)

spots.

N.E. Fidelity

Perry

6.7

145

204

Local acid
spots.

Pyramid

Perry

7.1

154

Southwestern

Randolph

7.3

138

Calc. rock.

Midwest Radiant

St. Clair

175

7.1

116

131

Sub -total -

438

6.6

105

147

Western Illinois

Solar

Schuyler

6.8

171

224

High percent

Little Sister

Fulton

7.7

157

179

Loess in

Morgan

Fulton

7.1

178

230

W. Illinois.

U.E. ,Buckheart

Fulton

7.7

101

134

U.E., Cuba

Fulton

7.5

123

144

T.T., Fiatt

Fulton

7.8

146

148

Fairview

Fulton

6.5

133

167

M.E. Rapatee

Fulton-Knox

7.5

148

177

Little John

Knox

6.8

166

194

Sub-total -

388

7.3

140

169

Northern Illinois

M.E. Atkinson Bureau
Northern Illinois Grundy
Morris Grundy

Wilmington Will

Northern Illinois Kankakee

Sub-total -

Total and averages -

7.4

157

264

Shaly material.

6.7

139

198

Shaly material.

3.1

144

Highly acid.

7.7

161

Compact and
plastic.

7.6

110

184

Compact and
plastic.

241

6.8
6.9

127

209

1 067

122.7

169.2

*p-H - 7.0 neutral; P - 92 lb/A, high; K150 - 200 lb/A high.

- 8 -

representative. A total number of 1067 samples was tested. The average
pH was 6.90; the average available phosphorus content was 122.7 pounds
per acre; and the average available potassium was 169.2 pounds per acre.
These amounts of nutrients are adequate for good forage production.

The plots located in southern Illinois contain smaller quanti-
ties of plant nutrients than the overall state average, while those in
western Illinois are substantially higher. In northern Illinois the
tests show the spoil bank material to be more variable. In the sandy
areas both the available phosphorus, and potassium content are low. In
other areas a toxic acid condition exists. These facts emphasize the
variability of spoil bank material and suggest that each location be
studied individually when planning land use. A systematic sampling tech-
nique and the thorough testing of spoil bank soils for acidity, phosphor-
us, and potassium are the first steps in the detailed planning for the
best use to be made of the land.

ANALYSIS OF SOILS TESTED BY COUNT Y SOIL TESTIN G LABORATORIES:

A study was made of soil tests from farms in the counties where
strip mining is being carried on. These data were obtained from the
county soil testing laboratories. Detailed summaries of the various tests
are listed in Appendix C. Table 3 shows a comparison of soil tests on
spoil bank soils and soils of farm land. The farm land averages were
computed and are not amenable to direct comparisons.

The acidity tests of spoil bank materials were determined by a
Beckman pH machine which measures the hydrogen ion concentration or pH
of the soil. The acidity tests of the county were made by the Comber
test method which enables one to determine the amounts of limestone (in
tons) required to neutralize the soil acidity. The correlation between

the Comber test and the pH readings is as follows:

- 9 -

Comber tes
tons limes
required.

;ts
;tone

Range in pH
for Comber test
readings.

Average pH
reading used for
computed averages.

0-1
2
3
4
5
6

7.0-6.11
6.1-5.81
5.8-5.31
5.3-4.71
4.7-4.21
4.2

6.5
6.0
5.5
5.0
4.5

The computed averages found in Table 3 were obtained by multiply-
ing the number of samples requiring a definite amount of limestone and
using the average pH listed for each limestone requirement as the multi-
plicand. The products were totaled and divided by the total number of
samples to obtain the computed pH averages.

The phosphorus tests made by the county were determined by the
improved phosphate soil test developed at the University of Illinois.
This gives a blue color, the intensity of which varies with the relative
amount of phosphorus available. The phosphorus tests of spoil bank
materials were made by the photometer method for determining available
phosphorus in soils; the available phosphorus content is recorded in
pounds per acre. The correlation between the visual color test and the
photometer test is as follows:

Improved phosphate
test, color in-
tensity.

Photometer

reading

pounds per acre.

Average reading used
in pounds per acre
for computed averages

Low
Slight
Medium
High

20-32
33-53
54-75
76-92

26
43
65

The spoil bank tests were determined by the photometer method,
which measures up to 200 pounds per acre of available phosphorus, and
the farm samples were run by the color method, which measures a maximum
of 92 pounds per acre of available phosphorus. The spoil bank readings

- 10 -

TABLE 3. COMPARISON OF THE AVERAGES OF SPOIL BANK AND FARM

LAND

SOILS.

County

Acidity average p-H

Pho s pho ru s

Potas

sium

Spoil banks.

Farmland*

Spo

il banks.

Farmland*

Spoil banks

. Farmland*

Bureau

7.4

5.80

87.3

40.7

264.0

215.6*

Fulton

7.1

6.01

84.5

46.7

161.7

205

Grundy

5.7

6.14-

71.0

51.7

182.0

208

Jackson

6.3

5.79

53.0

41.0

155

180

Kankakee

7.6

. • • •

79.4

....

184

176.8

Knox

6.8

5.88

88.7

36.1

194

204.9*

Perry

7.1

6.00

79.4

35.1

173.3

158

Randolph

7.3

6.21

68.0

39.1

138

157.7

Saline

4.5

5.79-

73.8

37.7

169

180.1*

Schuyler

6.8

5.85

88.0

33.4

224

155.9*

St. Clair

7.1

6.04

64.0

39.7

131

166

Vermilion

• • .

5.70

• • • •

56.1

• a . .

206*

Will

7.7

5.47

51.8

49.4

161

225.7*

Williamson

6.2

6.10

61.0

37.4

110

193.4

Farm land soils (tested by the County Soil Testing Laboratories.)

* Computed averages
See Appendix D.

- 11 -

were reduced to a level with the farm samples "by taking 92 pounds per
acre as a maximum reading. Thus the samples are more nearly comparable
than if averages of two different methods of testing were compared. The
computed averages were figured in the same manner as the computed pH
averages*

The potassium tests of both farm land and spoil bank material
were made by the photometer method for the determination of available
potassium in soils. Some of the averages from farm land tests are arith-
metical averages and thus are directly comparable with the spoil bank
tests. Where arithmetical averages were not available computed averages
were again determined.

In some cases the number of samples tested for potassium was
small and the averages obtained in such counties are not too reliable,
because they represent such a small percentage of the county area and
undoubtedly include the better farms and the more progressive farmers who
practice soil treatment. The averages shown are probably higher than a
more representative county average would be.

In all cases the spoil bank soil material tests were higher in
available phosphorus than the county farm land averages. In 11 of 13
counties listed the pH of spoil bank soil material was higher than the
average pH of county farm lands. The available potassium content of spoil
bank soil materials is generally lower than adjacent farm land. One of
the reasons for this is that much of the potassium of spoil bank soils
is present in an unavailable form. Vegetative growth and weathering will
tend to change some of the unavailable potassium to a more available form.

Illinois is one of the few states where soil testing of farm
lands is an accepted and widespread practice. These tests were made by
the state and county soil testing laboratories. The above comparisons

- 12 -

were made possible from the records made available by these laboratories.

TEMPERATURE AND MOISTURE RELA TI ONSHIPS OF SPOIL BAM SOIL S;

The temperature and moisture of spoil bank soils were measured
during July and August on various slope exposures and under varying
amounts of vegetative cover. The temperatures on slopes having south
or west exposures were higher than on slopes having north or east expos-
ures. On bare slopes the temperature at the two-inch level on south or
west slope exposures averaged about 10 to 12 degrees Fahrenheit higher
than on north or east slope exposures. A maximum range in temperature
of 44 degrees during a 24-hour period was recorded on a south slope ex-
posure at the two-inch depth level. At the six-inch level the temper-
ature fluctuates less during a 24-hour period than at depths closer to
the surface.

No excessively high temperatures were noted during the time
these recordings were made. The highest spoil bank soil temperature re-
corded was 105 degrees on a tight, plastic glacial till and shale mater-
ial in Will county.

Green vegetation generally tends to equalize soil temperatures.
It was found that the soil temperatures were 7 to 10 degrees lower under
alfalfa cover than on bare slopes in periods of rising temperatures.
Figure 3 shows vegetative growth on north and south slope exposures.
Vegetation is always better on north and east exposures.
EXPERIMENT AL PLOTS.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Experimental plots have been laid out at 40 different locations
on 22 mine properties in 14 counties. These were established for the pur-
pose of investigating the potentialities of revegetating and utilizing

agronomic species of the spoil banks in Illinois. Figure 4 shows the

- 13 -

• - * 1

I ■

/. * i i

I -I.

v ■«■

^ V

. .

Showing vegetative growth on north and south slope exposures. The
darker appearing portion to the upper right of the photograph is a
sod cover on a north slope. August, 1947. (Fig. 3)

- 14 -

AGRONOMY DEPARTMENT, UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, URBANA

*>•

Coal Companies-

1-Sahara

2-Delta

3-T-T (Elkville)

4-U.E. (Fidelity)

5-Pyramid

6-Southwestern

7-Midv/est Radiant

8-Solar

9-Little Sister
10-Morgan
11-U.E.Buckheart
12-U.E. Cuba
13-T-T.(Fiatt #2)
14-Fairview
15-M.E.(Rapatee)
IS-Little John
17-M.E. (Sheffield)
18-Morr is -Northern
19-Northern
20-Wi lmington
21 -North em
22-Ayrshire

31449— MS 79

Location of Experimental Plots on Strip-Mined Coal Lands of Illinois.

(Fig. 4)

- 15 -

location of the plots over the state. The numbers listed beside the

company name are used to designate the location of the experiment.

The nature of the experiments being studied is indicated by letters as

the following:

A. Species adaptation alone and in association of newly
mined spoils.

E. Species seeded on older banks covered with sweet clover
residue, weed residue, pastures, etc.

C. Fertility treatments.

D. Establishment of a mixture of several species.

E. Forage species seeded on "strike-off" banks.

F. Forage species seed on leveled banks.

G. Rate and time of seeding.
H. Use of mulching materials.

LOCATION ON MINE PROPERTIES :

A more detailed location of the experimental plots and the
total number of plots to date is listed in Table 4. In locating the
plots an attempt was made to test the spoils of all member companies of
the Illinois Coal Strippers Association and to test different textural
soil materials making up the spoil banks throughout the state; also to
test spoils formed by different stripping operations and left in vari-
ous ways.

PLOT DESIGNS AND FIELD METHODS :

The plot design used in Experiments A and G to study species
adaptation alone and in association on undisturbed spoil banks is shown
in Figure 5-A. In the eight-by eight association plots the grasses are
seeded up and down the slopes to cover two complete spoil banks wherever
possible. The measurements of the plots are 145.2 feet long by 15 feet

- 16 -

TABLE 4. DETAILED LOCATION OF PLOTS.

Experiment

No.

Classifi-

Sec-

Town-

Location

ation.

County.

tion.

ship.

Range.

Company.

in section.

Plots.

1 - A-f-B

Saline

Sahara

m of nw

1 - C

Saline

Sahara

2 - A + B

Williamson

Delta

NE of SW

3 - A

Jackson

T-T, Elkville

NW of SE

4 - A

Perry

U.E. Fidelity

SW|

4 - C

Perry

U.E. Fidelity

5 - A

Perry

3 W

Pyramid

swj

5 - D

Perry

Pyramid

6 - A

Randolph

5 1

Southwestern

NW of SE

6 - B

Randolph

Southwestern

7 - A

St. Clair

Midwest Radiant

NVV of NE

7 - C

St. Clair

Midwest Radiant

NW of NE

7 - A-E+F

St. Clair

Midwest Radiant

NIT of NE

389

8 - D

Schuyler

Solar

9 - B

Fulton

Morgan

10 - A

Fulton

Little Sister

10 - B

Fulton

Little Sister

11 - A

Fulton

Buckheart

NE of NW

11 - C

Fulton

Buckheart

12 - A

Fulton

Cuba

NEi
SEI-

13 - A

Fulton

T-T,Fiatt No. 2

13 - D + G

Fulton

T-T,Fiatt No. 2

14 - D + G

Fulton

Fairview

14 - E

Fulton

Fairview

15 -A+B

Fulton

Rapatee

NE of NE

60 +

15 - C

Knox

Rapatee

15 - F

Knox

Rapatee

NE of NE

113

16 - A

Knox

Little John

17 - A-i-D

Bureau

M.E.Atkinson Sheffield Mine

71 +

18 - A

Grundy

Morris

19 - F

Grundy

Northern Illinois

m of sw

19 - A

Grundy

Northern Illinois

NW of SW

19 - B

Grundy

Northern Illinois

nbJ

19 - C

Grundy

20 - A

van '

Wilmington

SWi

21 - A+D

Kankakee

Northern Illinois

SW of NE

21 - A-D

Kankakee

Northern Illinois

SW of SW

22 - A-D

Vermilion

None

Total Number of Plots -

1,728

- 17 -

i
oc

$■

Alfalfa

Als

ike Clover

Birdsfoot

Ladino CI

Yell
Swee

TrefoLl

Dver

Mixture of 7 Legumes

Red Clove

Korean Le

.ow or
it CI

s-pedeza

tfhitel

er
L

Oir-t

<a-

CD
E

cc
to

tidge

Valley

Lidge

Valley

ticige

Cj CO

q co

o u

-cf

«J

Sh CD

o 2

(-1

CO
CO

c3 CO

♦»

£PQ

•d

ft
o

§ 9

ttf

♦a

Tj fc

*> -H

a) ci>

G -d

•H

The nlot design used in studying snecie adaptation, alone and
in association. (Fig. 5-A)

- 18 -

wide, mating l/20 acre in size. The legumes are seeded across the grass
plots and run approximately parallel to the ridges and valleys. These
plots are 18.2 feet wide by 120 feet long, making 1/20 acre plots. The
species seeded are randomized and the plots are duplicated in all cases.
This type of arrangement makes possible the study of 64 grass-legumes
associations. All the species used are also seeded alone up and down
the slope in l/20 acre plots. Some of the grass plots were treated
with various amounts of nitrogen fertilizer as shown in the grass plot
of the design. The size of the treated plot is 5 feet wide by 21.5 feet
long, making about 1/400 acre in size. Since the legumes were inocul-
ated when they were seeded they were not treated with a nitrogen fertil-
izer*

The plot design used in Experiment C is shown in Figure 5-B.
The fertilizer applications are applied up and down the slopes at the
rate of 750 pounds of 8-8-8 mixed fertilizer and 100 pounds of trace min-
erals per acre as shown. The size of the plots are 130 feet long by 30
feet wide, making .09 acre. The 750 pounds of 8-8-8 mixed fertilizer
means that 60 pounds of elemental nitrogen, 60 pounds of phosphoric acid

(^2^5) » an< * 60 pounds of potash (K2O) are applied per acre. Straight
materials were used and mixed in the proper amounts. 7/hen ammonium
nitrate was used, 16.6 pounds of a 32.5 percent material was applied.
In some cases ammonium sulfate was used and 27 pounds of a 20-percent
material was applied. Twelve pounds of a 45-percent phosphate was used
per plot to supply the phosphorus. Nine pounds of a 60-percent potash
were required per plot to supply the necessary amounts. In all cases
where trace minerals were used nine pounds of "Agro-Min" was applied per
plot. This material, made by the Agricultural Minerals Company, Montgom-
ery, Alabama, contains "zinc, copper, manganese, boron, iron, calcium,

- 19 -

-30'-

i
o

■ —

, — .

_ _5_ _ __
11

_ k

. 13

— _

_ —

—

_ _ —

— — —

. — —

— — _

A __ _

_8_

_10 ,

P. 1?

-?'

40'-

rtilizer Ap]

>licat

ion

rage Species Seeded

Pounds

Rate

?50 lbs. /A

per

plot

acre

8-8-8

Kentucky bluegrass

1.1

8-8-8

plus

trace

elements

Brome

1.1

8-0-0

■olus

trace

elements

Red ton

1.0

8-0-0

Timothy

0.85

8-8-0

Orchard Grass

1.1

8-0-8

Alta Fescue

1.1

0-8-8

Ryegrass

1.1

0-0-0

9.
10.
11.
1?.
13.

Sweet Clover

Alfalfa

Red Clover

Lad i no

Lest)edeza

Birdsfoot Trefoil

1.1
1.1

0.85
0.33
l.k

0.^5

1?
5.0
?0
6.0

The Tolot design used for the fertility treatment experiment. (Fig. 5-3)

- 20 -

sodium, iodine, cobalt, magnesium, and ten other minor mineral elements."
(Quoted from label on bags of Agro-Min.)

V/hen limestone was needed it was supplied at the rate of 5 tons
per acre in the form of hydrated lime.

Fertility plots are located on the following properties: The
Sahara Coal Company, Saline County; The United Electric Coal Companies,
Fidelity mine, Perry County; The United Electric Coal Companies, Buck-
heart mine, Fulton County; The Midland Electric Coal Corporation, Knox
County; and the Northern Illinois Coal Company, G-rundy County. Three of
the locations were seeded and treated in the fall of 1948, and the re-
maining plots will be completed in the spring of 1949.

The plot design used on leveled and "strike-off" areas and for
different levels of nitrogen applications on plots growing cultivated
crops is given in Figure 5-C. Experiments E and F are seeded on this
type of plot. The size of these plots are 1/400 and 1/200 acres. Level-
ed plots are located in southern Illinois on the Midwest Radiant Corpor-
ation property in St. Clair County; in western Illinois on the Midland
Electric Coal Corporation, Rapatee mine, in Knox County; and in northern
Illinois on Northern Illinois Coal Corporation property in Grundy coun-
ty. "Strike-off" plots are located on the Midwest Corporation property
and on the Fairview Collieries property in Fulton County.

Experiments B and D are seeded on essentially the same design
of plots as Experiment A except that the plots are 30 feet wide instead
of 15 feet.
SEEDING DATA.

ORIGIN AND VIABILITY OF SEED USED:

The forage species used, the companies from which the seed was

obtained, the germination, purity and origin of the seed sown are listed

- 21 -

Treatments .

- No nitrogen.

- 20 pounds elemental nitrogen.

- 40 pounds elemental nitrogen.

- 60 pounds elemental nitrogen.

- 80 pounds elemental nitrogen.

-100 pounds elemental nitrogen.

-120 pounds elemental nitrogen.

-500 pounds 8-8-8 fertilizer.

The plot design used on leveled areas for culti-
vated crops with different levels of nitrogen
application. Plots 1/400 acre. (Fig. 5-C)

- 22 -

in Appendix E. \Therever possible locally grovm seed was used. Much of
the seed of the native grasses was obtained from the Soil Conservation
Service Nurseries at Mandan, North Dakota and Manhattan, Kansas.

TIME OF SEEDIN G;

The species were seeded in both the spring and the fall in all
three areas, southern, western and northern Illinois. Because of the
compact, plastic nature of the surface material of the spoils in north-
ern Illinois and also because of the latitude future seedings will be
made in that area only in the spring. In the fall of 1947 the seeding
dates ranged from August 21 to September 24. During this period of time
there appears to be little difference in results obtained. The moisture
condition of the spoil banks and climate for that year were more impor-
tant. In general, however, it is not recommended to seed later than
about September 15 for most species.

The time of spring seedings in 1948 ranged from March 3 to
April 10. In general the legumes seeded earliest made the better initial
growth, but by fall there was little difference between early and late
seedings.

Table 5 lists the number of plots of each of the legumes species
seeded and the growth observed in both spring and fall seedings. The
results of the grass plots are changing constantly. Some of the grasses
are slow to germinate, and because of the lack of nitrogen in spoil bank
soils are slower to become established. Therefore a summary table for
the grasses is not included at this time. A total of 136 plots on three
locations was destroyed during 1948 as a result of mining operations and
much valuable information was lost.

In most cases, on fresh spoils especially, legumes did better

- 23 -

TABLE 5. SURVIVAL OF LEGUMES SEEDED ON PLOTS IN THE FALL AND SPRING AS

OF SEPTEMBER, 1948.

Number

of
Plots Fall seeded plots. Spring seeded plots*
Total. Good Poor-None Good Poor-None. Notes.

Specie.

Alfalfa

Alsike

Birdsfoot trefoil

•

Korean lespedeza

Ladino

Mix legumes

Red clover

Sweet clover

Hub am

Spanish Sweet clover

—

Kobe lespedeza

Sericea lespedeza

Common lespedeza

—

Mammoth clover

Crimson

Subterraean

VJhite Dutch

Hop

—

Bur

Alyce

Austrian winter pea

•

Big broadleaf trefoil

Yellow trefoil

Persian clover

„.

Lupines

Lappacea

Sanfoin

Crown vetch 5

Butter clover 12
Early Korean lespedeza 7

8
6

8
12
14

4
6

3
6
2
6

4
1

20
15

15
13
13

8
4
9
4
2
9
2

10
10

3
6

Best.

Comes in natural-

ly on many banks

especially in

valleys.

Good promise,

spring seed only.

OK on fresh spoils

in spring.

Good in valleys

generally, spring

seed only.

Good overall.

Root rot, pea aphid

& sweet clover wee-

vil hurt young sweet

clover in 1948.

Good.

Very little seen.

None.

Birdsfoot trefoil

better.

Good in south.

None

Few plants seen.

Perhaps an inocul-

ation problem.

Old seed.

Shows promise.

Use in more north-

Kudzu
Kudzu

ern latitudes.

1947, 500 plants
poorstock.

1948, 200 plants
good.

- 24 -

when seeded in the spring. Alfalfa, yellow trefoil, mammoth, medium red
clover, and button clover, an annual alfalfa, gave fair to satisfactory-
stands when seeded in the fall. Grasses seeded in the fall in southern
and western Illinois on some plots were better than when seeded in the
spring. Kentucky bluegrass, the tall fescues, orchard grass, and red-
top did well when seeded in the fall on fresh spoils. From results ob-
tained to date it appears to be advisable to seed grasses with the legumes
in a mixture instead of seeding legumes alone first and then trying to
introduce grasses into the stand at a later date.

RATE OF SEEDING AND CONDITION OF SPOIL BANKS:

Seedling counts were made on a number of species at several lo-
cations. A one-foot square was used. The counts again indicate that
less than one-half of the seed that was seeded germinated and established
itself on the slopes. Much of the seed was washed down into the valleys
where heavy stands were generally noted. This is especially true of the
larger seeded-species.

Thus it seems evident that a heavier seeding should be used
than that normally recommended in farming practices} also, there is prob-
ably an ideal time to seed the species to result in a minimum washing away
of the seed. "When possible the seeding after a rain when the banks are
moist and more receptive to the seed is recommended. Heavy rains immedi-
ately following the seeding cause washing which reduces the stands.

Better stands and ground cover are usually obtained on north
than on south slope exposures. It was also noted that the top two or
three feet of the peaks were not well covered. Striking-off to a width
of 12 to 16 feet will do much to improve the stand of forage since the tops
will be flattened and the length of the slope, usually subject to severe

erosions will generally be shortened. Also the tops thus prepared have

- 25 -

made good seedbeds. Figure 6 shows an area treated in this way before
seeding.

Ground cover studies on an established spoil bank pasture taken
in the fall of 1948 show about 91 percent ground cover on the strike-off
tops, compared to 64 percent ground cover on untreated tops. The percen-
tage of weeds was 6 percent higher on the untreated than on the strike-off
tops.

Various rates of application of seed of species seeded alone
and in mixtures are being studied. Tyner (4) suggested that the seeding
rates commonly used should be increased by 30 percent. An excellent stand
was obtained in southern Illinois by seeding a mixture of legumes at the
rate of 17 pounds per acre. At this time it is recommended that at least
a minimum of 15 pounds of mixture should be seeded depending on the spe-
cies used. Experiments on this problem are still being carried on.

Grass species and grass-legume mixtures have been seeded into a
pre-established stand of sweet clover, weeds, etc. (Experiment B.) In
most of the cases the areas have not been grazed. Satisfactory stands
of sweet clover and weeds have not been established by seeding into such
areas. Generally the stands of sweet clover and wesds have been so rank
that other species cannot compete with the established growth. Plots
seeded on such areas that are pastured are still being studied. Thus it
seems better to seed grasses along with the legumes in a mixture on fresh
spoils than to wait and attempt to get the grasses started later in most
locations. Far better stands are established on fresh spoils than on
older spoils. If pasture establishment is to be the land use of the strip-
ped land, the fresh, bare spoil banks should be seeded every year as
rapidly as stripped up to the actual shovel operation.

- 26 -

Spoil bank ridges struck-off to a width of 12-16* by means of a bull-
dozer, Fairview Collieries Corporation, Fulton County. (Fig* 6)

- 27 -

GR07, r TH AND PROGRESS OF THE SPECIES t

The forage species seeded on the spoil banks were listed in the
first annual report and the legumes used are listed in Table 5. As is
shown in the table and was known previously, species such as the lespe-
dezas, sweet clovers, birdsfoot trefoil, and ladino should be seeded only
in the spring. The legumes showing up best are alfalfa, sweet clover,
lespedeza, yellow trefoil, birdsfoot trefoil, medium and mammoth red
clover, and alsike clover. Ladino, button clover and Kudzu have given
very good stands under some conditions. Legumes, even though inoculated
are not always well nodulated. Yellow and unthrifty appearing legume
plants may be due to this fact.

Of the grasses orchard grass, ryegrass, the fescues (meadow,
Alta and Kentucky 31), redtop, timothy, Kentucky and Canada bluegrass,
and bromegrass have been most successful. Orchard grass has given the
best results to date. Ryegrass starts extremely fast but lacks persis-
tence so that by the second year very little is left. Rhodes grass seed-
ed in only three of four locations has shown interesting growth. More
plots of this grass will be seeded in 1949. Figures 7 to 12 give a pic-
torial record of forage growth obtained on spoil banks.

MIXTURE SEEDINGS :

Better pastures usually result when a mixture of different gras-
ses and legumes is seeded than when a specie is seeded alone. There are
a number of reasons for using mixtures. They give more complete coverage
and better control of erosion as the foliage protects the soil and the
roots hold it. More forage is produced and the pastures are likely to be
productive over a longer period as the legumes furnish nitrogen for the
grasses and these in turn lessen winter killing of the legumes. Cattle
and sheep are less apt to bloat on mixtures of grasses and legumes than

- 28 -

Sweet clover in full bloom on spoil banks. Northern Illinois
Coal Corporation, Grundy county. July, 1948. (Fig* 7)

~ 29 -

Red clover growing on spoil banks in St. Clair county,
Midwest Radiant Corporation. 1948. (Fig* 8)

- 30 -

\-meJ!

Mixture of ryegrass, alfalfa, sweet clover, alsike mam-
moth clover, and birdsfoot trefoil seeded on spoil banks.
Little John Coal Company, Knox County, 1949. (Fig. 9)

- 31 -

x 4

Mm*

Individual red clover, bromegrass, and alfalfa plants
that were growing on spoil banks. Truax-Traer Coal
Company, Fulton County, 1948. (Fig. 10)

- 32 -

Ladino growing on a strike-off area plot. Midwest Radiant Corpor-
ation, St. Clair County, 1947. (Fig. 11)

- 33 -

Kudzu in foreground showing good ground cover. United
Electric Coal Companies, Fidelity mine. Perry County,
1948. (Fig. 12)

■

- 34 -

on legumes alone. Mixed pastures afford a variety of grazing and help
provide a well balanced ration.

Mixtures that have been successful when seeded on fresh spoils
in the spring include:

Total

per acre.

Lbs.

(1)

Ryegrass

Mammoth clover

1.5

Alfalfa

Alsike clover

Sweet clover

2.5

Birdsfoot trefoil

(2)

Alfalfa

Lespedeza, K.

Sweet clover

Ladino

(3)

Sweet clover

Brome

Alfalfa

Orchard grass

Lespedeza

Redtop

A mixture recommended for early fall seeding is:

Alfalfa

Orchard grass

Mammoth clover

Redtop

Alsike

Timothy

17
Sweet clover is the only specie of which forage yields were
taken in 1948. Dry matter yields taken from three areas in western Illi-
nois averaged 2.01 ton per acre. In connection with the pasturing proj-
ects, yields from an established spoil bank pasture in western Illinois
were 1.39 tons per acre and from a less well established area in south-
ern Illinois of which a large percentage was sweet clover was 1.17 tons
of dry matter per acre.

As noted in Table 5 sweet clover seeded in the spring failed
on about one-half of the plots. Sweet clover weevil and pea aphid killed
much of the young growth in 1948. Root rot, Phytophtora cactorum, killed
or severely damaged second year sweet clover stands in many areas. Yel-
low blossomed varieties seemed harder hit than the white blossomed vari-
i

- 35 -

ety. It is doubtful if the clover in such areas has reseeded itself.

RESULTS OF EXPERIMENTS V.'ITH CULTIVATED CROPS:

The following cultivated crops were sown on leveled areas in
St. Clair and Grundy counties; wheat, rye, oats, corn, and soybeans for
grain production, and sweet sudan — soybean for hay. The plot design is
shown in Figure 5-C. The results obtained with rye seeded on leveled
and strike-off areas in St. Clair county are listed in Table 6-A.
Wheat yields obtained were very similar to those obtained with rye. The
data indicates what may be expected if adequate amounts of nitrogen only
are added. Rye growing on a leveled area is shown in Figure 13.

Yields of soybean-sweet sudan hay are listed in Table 6-B. The
increase in yield was due primarily to the heavier growth of sweet sudan
where higher applications of nitrogen were made. Soybeans, even though
they were inoculated, did not contribute much to the total weight. Growth
of this mixture is shown in Figure 14.

Soybeans that were seeded alone did not thrive any better than
those seeded in the sweet sudan. No difference due to treatment was
noted. Plant growth was small, approximately 12 to 18 inches in height,
and very few pods were set.

Corn was also planted on treated plots. The plots were 43 feet
long by six feet wide, with 16 hills per row and 2 rows per plot. Six
different treatments were applied as follows: (1) 50 pounds of elemental
nitrogen per acre was hill-dropped; (2) 50 pounds elemental nitrogen per
acre hill-dropped at planting time plus 70 pounds per acre side-dressed
when the corn was about knee high; (3) 100 pounds of elemental nitrogen
plus 100 pounds of potash (6C$) was broadcast ahead of planting; (4)
100 pounds of potash hill-dropped per acre; (5) corn planted with inocul-
ated Kingwa soybeans; (6) no treatment.

- 36 -

TABLE 6-A. RYE YIELDS ON LEVELED AND STRIKE-OFF PLOTS ON

MIDWEST RADIANT

CORPORATION

PROPERTY

IN ST.

CLAIR COUNTY.

Treatment

;al

Number of
plots leveled

Yields

Test

lbs. el erne ni

Leveled

Strike-

loTf

Weight

nitrogen.

strike-off.

bu/A

average.

2 1

5.3

5.8

2 1

10.0

12.4

2 1

13.6

17.8

2 1

24.8

18.2

2 1

22.9

10.4

100

2 1

26.0

28.1

120

2 1

30.2

....

52.5

500 lb. 8-8-

2 1

13.2

13.6

TABLE 6-B. SWEET SUDAN-SOYBEAN HAY YIELDS ON LEVELED PLOTS.

Treatment

Number

lbs. elemental

Yield

Chemical

nitrogen.

Plots .

tons/A.

analysis.

0.413

2.112

2.358

3.096

3.204

100

3.804

120

6.818

500 lb. 8-8-8

1.428

- 37 -

Rye growing on a leveled area. Midwest Radiant Cor-
poration. St. Clair County, 1948. (Fig. 13)

- 38 -

'V*

.as

» **

- ¥!

Sweet sudan - soybean mixture growing on a leveled
area. Midwest Radiant Corporation, St. Clair Coun-
ty, 1948. (Fig. 14)

- 39 -

The yields obtained on the corn plots were as follows:

Yield
Plot Number. Treatment. bushels per acre.

1 50 lbs. nitrogen per acre 17.1

hill-dropped.

2 50 lbs. nitrogen per acre 60.5

hill-dropped plus 70
lbs. per acre side-
dressed when corn about
18 inches high,

3 100 lbs. nitrogen and 100 lbs. 42.3

potash per acre, broadcast.

4 100 lbs. potash, hill-dropped.

5 Inoculated soybeans planted in

the hill with the corn.

6 No treatment.
Figure 15 shows the corn on plots (3) and (4).

"Wheat and rye seeded on similar plots in Grundy county died
out in the spring even though fair growth was obtained in the fall. The
texture of the soil is high in clay and does not have as good drainage
as that in St. Clair County.

These plots of cultivated crops would indicate that where areas
are free of rock and where the soil material is silty in texture, appli-
cations of nitrogen result in good growth.

ANIMAL GAINS AS A METHOD OF MEASURING YIELDS AND QUALITY OF
SPOIL BANK FORAGE .

PASTURING PHASE:

In an effort to determine the value of a strip-mined land for
agricultural production, a project in which beef cattle grazed on spoil
bank pastures was initiated in 1948. The grazing tests were carried out
on lands in Fulton county owned by Mr. Byron Somers and on lands in Perry
county owned by the United Electric Coal Companies, Fidelity mine,

■ •

- 40 -

'ma

^4 *.,*

■*

':J*'\ W t

Growth of corn on treated and untreated plots on a
leveled area. Midwest Radiant Corporation, St.
Clair County, 1948. (Fig« 15)

- 41 -

Twenty yearling steers of medium grade were used in each of
the two areas. Ten steers were grazed on spoil bank pastures, while
the same number were run on ordinary farm pastures as a check, or con-
trol group. The control pasture used in Fulton County was an 80-acre
bluegrass pasture within a mile of the area grazed by the test group.
Ten steers on 80 acres insured adequate forage the whole season. As no
suitable established pasture could be secured in Perry County for the
test, the control group was grazed at the Dixon Springs Experiment Sta-
tion which is located in Pope County about 75 miles southeast of the
Perry County strip-mined land.

The spoils pasture in Fulton county on which the test was made
was mined about 12 years ago. Sweet clover was seeded in 1938. Grasses
and other legumes were seeded later. A good stand of grasses and legumes
has been secured over a considerable portion of the area.

A survey of the botanical composition of the pastures was made
in the spring and again in the fall. On April 29, 1948, measurements
were made by using a quadrate and estimating the percentage of growing
cover contributed by each specie in each quadrate. On October 7, 1948,
the ground cover was obtained by means of the point quadrate method.
Bluegrass and sweet clover were the dominant species in the spoil bank
pasture. Table 7 shows the percent each specie is contributing to the
pasture sward and the percent of bare area.

Yields were taken by using four foot square metal cages in each
pasture which protected the sample areas from grazing. The cages were
placed in locations representative of the general area. On the spoil
banks pasture the yield thus computed was found to be 1.4 tons of oven-
dry forage per acre. The yield of the bluegrass pasture was computed
to be 1.0 ton per acre. Figure 16 shows the cage used to get the yield

- 42 -

TABLE 7. PERCENT EACH SPECIE IS CONTRIBUTING TO THE TOTAL
COVER AND THE PERCENT OF BARE AREA OF T HE SPOIL BANK
PASTURE AND THE UNDISTURBED BLUEGRASS PASTURE, 1948.

Specie,

Spoil bank pasture
April 29, 1948 October 7, 1948

Spring Fall

percent of total. percent of total.

Undisturbed
Bluegrass pas-
ture April 29,
1948, Soring
percent of
total.

Grasses:
Bluegrass
Redtop
Timothy
Bromegrass
Wild grasses

36
7
7
9
2

41.0
7.0
3.0

10.0
5.0

63
1
3

Legumes:
Alfalfa
Sweet clover
Red clover
Alsike clover
White clover
Lespedeza

4
1

Trace

0.5
18.0
2.0
7.0
0.5

5
Trace

V;eeds

Dead or no vegetation

8 (100?Q

6 (100f0
6

11 (100^)

- 43 -

Four-foot square metal cage used to protect an area
from grazing and under which forage was cut to determ-
ine forage yields of pastures; Lot 2 bluegrass pasture
in Fulton County, 1948. (Fig. 16)

- 44 -

data.

The Perry county area has been stripped more recently and the
pasture is not as well established. The area was seeded in the spring
of 1947. The following species were observed growing: sweet clover, al-
falfa, red clover, lespedeza, orchard grass, ryegrass, redtop, alta fes-
cue, timothy, and Kentucky bluegrass. During the first part of the graz-
ing season the forage was primarily sweet clover. During the latter part
of the season, the orchard grass came along very fast and formed a good
part of the forage ration. Yields of oven-dry forage taken in Perry coun-
ty by the same method as described for Western Illinois were computed to
be 1.2 tons per acre. A large part of the forage weights resulted from
the good sweet clover growth in the early spring.

The pasture at the Dixon Springs Experiment Station was a grass-
legume mixture on improved land.

The results obtained in terms of animal gains during the pas-
ture season, a total of 163 days, were as follows:

Av. Wt. Av. Wt. Av. Total Av. Daily

April 22 1/ Oct. 2 l/ Gain l/ Gain l/
lbs. lbs. Ifcs. lbs.

FULTON COUNTY TEST

Test Steers, Spoils Pasture
Control Steers, Grass-legume

Pasture

669
659

863
870

194
211

1.19
1.29

890
865

173

200

1.06
1.23

PERRY COUNTY TEST

Test Steers, Spoils Pasture^/ 717
Control Steers, Grass-legume 665

Pasture

V Weights at Urbana April 22 before the cattle were trucked to their re-
spective pastures and at Urbana on October 2, the day following their
return. Obviously the cattle suffered considerable shrinkage on both
trips.

- Average initial and final weights on only three steers returned to Ur-
bana.

In analyzing the individual gains, it was found that for the

- 45 -

Lot 1 steers on spoil bank pasture in Fulton county, the total gains varied
from 280 pounds to 130 pounds for the 163 pasture day period. The average
total gain was 194 pounds and the average daily gain was 1.19 pounds. For
the Lot 2 steers on bluegrass pasture in Fulton County, the range in total
gains was the same as Lot 1 while the average total gains were 211 pounds
and the average daily gains were 1.29 pounds. Figure 17 shows the nature
of the spoil bank pasture in Fulton county. Figure 18 shows the Lot 2 cat-
tle on the bluegrass pasture.

The average weights listed for the Lot 3 steers on the Perry-
County spoil bank pasture are for three steers only. It was impossible to
get the rest of the steers from the spoil bank pasture at the time the truck
picked up the steers on the grass-legume pasture at the Dixon Springs Ex-
periment Station to truck them back to Urbana for the feet- lot phase. See
Table 8 for individual data on all steers.

FEED LOT PHASE :

The steers were in the feed lot a total of 45 days, during which
time they were fed broken ear corn and clover hay. Here again there was

wide variation in the total gains made by individual animals. See Table 8.
The average daily gains in the drylot were: Lot 1 - 1.98 pounds; Lot 2 -
2.18 pounds; Lot 3 - 2.07 pounds; and Lot 4 - 2.09 pounds. Figures 19 and
20 show the steers after being in the drylot for approximately 20 days.

A summary of the gains made in the feed lot and the market grades
and dressing percentages is given in Table 9.

CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF FORAGE PLAN TS.

S POIL BANK FORAGE :

The species that became established were sampled at various times
during the year in order to determine the chemical composition of forage
plants grown on the spoil banks. Approximately 350 such samples have been
collected and prepared and are being analyzed.

- 46 -

Showing cattle and spoil bank pasture on which Lot 1 cattle grazed. Mr.
Byron Somers, Fulton County, 1948. (Fig* 17)

- 47 -

Undisturbed bluegrass pasture and several Lot 2 cat-
tle. Mr. Byron Somers, Fulton County, 1948.

(Fig. 18)

- 48 -

TABLE 8. DA TA GIV ING INDIVIDUAL WEIGHTS AND GRADES OF

STEERS PASTURED AMD FED_Ilj_1948.

A. Lot 1 — Established Spoil Bank Pastures in Fulton County.

Tattoo

161
65
69
73
77*
81
85
89
93
97

Pasture weights.

lbs.

690
700
660
610
650
680
630
770
660
640

Off

Gain on Weight
pasture. off
dry lot.

Gain Total Wt. of

in gain, warm u#0 f I#
drvlot. carcass.

Grade by

lbs.

910
870
870
750
840
960
850
920
790
870

lbs.

220
170
210
140
190
280
220
150
130
230

lbs.

1040

1000
930
860
770
940
950

1050
960

1020

lbs. lbs.

130
130
60
110
-70
-20
100
130
170
150

350
300
270
250
120
260
320
280
300
380

lbs.

618

581
551
496
426
534
532
552
553
534

B-

B+

B-

B+

B-

Fed'l.
Gov't.

B-

B +

C +

B-f

Averages 669.0

863.0 194.0

952.0 106.7* 283.0

B. Lot 2 — Undisturbed Bluegrass Pasture in Fulton County.

131

640

670

700

620

660

700

680

610

670

Averages

659

910

270

1030

120

390

590

920

280

1020

100

380

520

800

130

830

160

488

920

220

1030

110

330

570

780

160

940

160

320

505

900

240

980

320

536

910

210

1000

300

560

870

190

990

120

310

561

770

160

840

230

481

920

250

1020

100

350

566

870.0

211.0

968.0

98.0

309.0

B-

C +

B-

C +

B-

C. Lot 3 — Spoil Bank Pastures in Perry County.

149
67
71
75
79
83
87
91
95

600
680
700
710
680
630
760
740
670

850

870

950

170

150

190

990 140 310

890

20 170

1070 120 310

No carcass

information

obtained.

Averages 675.0

890.0 170.0

983.0 93.0 263.0

(Continued)

- 49 -

TABLE 8. — (continued)

D. Lot 4 — Grass-Legume Pasture at Dixon Springs Experiment Station.

Tattoo

Pasture weights. Gain on Weight Gain Total Yit. of

Oi'i' pasture. off in gain, warm uTof I.

dry lot. dry lot. carcass.

Grade by

Fed'l.
Gov't,

lbs.

101

660

740

620

630

650

710

630

660

620

100

730

Averages

665. (

lbs.

lbs

lbs.

910

250

1000

340

890

150

940

200

820

200

920

100

300

760

130

790

160

920

270

1040

120

390

900

190

1020

120

310

820

190

870

240

800

200

990

130

330

860

240

1030

170

410

940

180

990

260

865.0 200.0

lbs.

No carcass

information

obtained.

959.0 94.0 294.0

* This steer was sick, therefore, 9 steers were used in computing the average
gains in drylot.

AFG:bjs
1-20-49

- 50 -

Lot 1 steers in the drylot. These steers were grazed on an establish,
ed spoil bank pasture in Fulton County, 1948. (Fig. 19)

- 51 -

Lot 2 steers, in drylot. These steers were grazed on an undisturbed blue-
grass pasture in Fulton County, 1948. (Fig* 20)

- 52 -

TABLE 9. FATTENING IN DRY LOT AFTER REMOVAL FROM PASTURE.

Lot 1.

Lot 2.

Lot 3.

Lot 4.

Number of steers 10

Average weight into feed lot,

October 2, pounds 863

Average weight off feed lot,

November 16, pounds 952

Average gain per head, pounds 89

Average daily gain in dry lot,

pounds 1.98

Average gain per head on pasture

163 days, pounds 194

Average gain in dry lot, 45 days,

pounds 89

Average total gain, pounds 283

Average daily ration

broken ear corn, pounds 17.1

clover hay, pounds 6.0

Selling price Chicago, November 17,

1948 (purchased by Swift & Co.) 21.50

Dressing percentage (Swift* s) 56.8

Carcass grades

Mr. Johnson - University of Illi-
nois. 2 B+

1 B
6 B-
1 C +

10 ,

870

890

865

968

983

959

2.18

211

98
309

17.1
6.0

22.00
56.0

1 B
9 B

2.07

173

93
263

18.7
5.9

23.15

2.09

200

294

16.1
6.0

24.25

Not obtained.

No carcass

information

Government Grader

2 B*

3 B
2 B-
2 C4-
1 C

2 B
4 B-
4 C*

obtained.

* Average, initial and final weights on only three steers returned to Urbana.

AFG:bjs
1-19-49

- 53 -

This section of the report will be submitted later when some
of the results of the chemical analysis of spoil bank forage are com-
pleted. Table 10 gives the chemical composition of hay and forage crops
grown on farm land over a period of years. (3)

DISSEMINATION OF INFORMATION .

An inspection tour of spoil bank reclamation work in Indiana
and Illinois was conducted jointly by the Purdue Agricultural Experiment
Station and the Illinois Agricultural Experiment Station, cooperating
with the Illinois Coal Strippers Association on June 16-19 inclusive.
June 18 and 19 were spent touring southern and western Illinois areas.

Those attending the Illinois tour wholly or in part were:

Dean C. R. Orton, Director, W. Virginia Exp. Sta., Morgantown, W. Va.

S. L. Galpin, Hydro logist, W. Virginia Exp. Sta., Morgantown, W. Va.

E. H. Tyner, Assoc. Agronomist, W. Virginia Exp. Sta., Morgantown, W. Va.

H. A. Wilson, Assoc. Bacteriologist, W. Va. Exp. Sta., Morgantown, W. Va.

A. Alexander, Chief, State Dept. of Mines, Charleston, W. Va.

W. Moore, Inspector, State Dept. of Mines, Charleston, W. Va.

J. Hall, Inspector, State Dept. of Mines, Charleston, W. Va.

A. G. Chapman, Forester, Central States Forest Exp. Sta., Columbus, 0.

G. A. Limstrom, Forester, Central States Forest Exp. Sta, Columbus, 0.

John Reiser, Ohio Power Company, Dover, 0.

H.^Kohnke, Soil Scientist, Purdue Agri. Exp. Sta., Lafayette, Ind.

E. Stivers, Purdue Agri. Exp. Sta., Lafayette, Ind.

0. B. Riggs, General Manager, Meadowlark Farms, Sullivan, Ind.

J. Hayes, Agricultural Agent, Illinois Central System, Paducah, Ky.

James W. Bristow, Sec.-Treas. Illinois Coal Strippers Assn., Chicago, 111.

Louis S. Weber, Land Use Eng'r., 111. Coal Strippers Assn., Springfield, 111.

R. D. Lane, C.S.F.E.S., Carbondale Branch, Carbondale, 111.

A. L. Lang, Agronomist, 111. Agri. Exp. Sta., Urbana, 111.

R. R. Snapp, Animal Science, 111. Agri. Exp. Sta., Urbana, 111.

F. C. Francis, Animal Science, 111. Agri. Exp. Sta., Urbana, 111.
H. G. Russell, Animal Science, Extension, Urbana, 111.

A. F. Grandt, Agronomist, 111. Agri. Exp. Sta., Urbana, 111.

D. Larson, Staff Forester, 111. Div. of Forestry, Springfield, 111.
Otto Bauman, Dist. Conservationist, Belleville, 111.

F. C. Spencer, Cons. Botanist and Plant Pathologist, Lebanon, 111.

P. N. Seastrom, Farm Manager, DuQuoin, 111.

J. A. Watt, Farm Adviser, Fulton County, Canton, 111.

C. W. Rovey, Farmer, Farmersville, 111.

E. Schilf, Veterinarian, U.S.B.A.I., Canton, 111.

B. Somers, Farmer, Canton, 111.

A. H. Truax, Deep Valley Farms, Canton, 111.

D. H. LaVoi, Deep Valley Farms, Canton, 111.

- 54 -

TABLE 10. HAY AND FORAGE CROPS t Chemical Composition

Over A Period of Years. 2/

Crop

Number of
samples.

Average pounds per ton of crop.
Protein P K Ca Mg Fe

Legumes:

Alfalfa

55.0

344

Red Clover

47.4

296

Alsike

47.0

294

Lespedeza

40.4

252

Sweet Clover (full
bloom)

34.4

215

Sweet Clover

October-November

41.4

259

Sweet Clover

April -May

69.0

431

3.6 24.0 35.0 9.8 .16 .02

3.2 26.0 29.4 9.2 .28 .10

4.2 22.4 26.2 10.6 .30 .09

2.9 18.9 17.0 5.7 .20 .14

3.0 19.4 42.0 13.4

2.2 16.0 27.0 12.4 .30 .20

6.0 32.0 32.8 11.4

Ladino

441

7.6

29.2

Grasses:

Kentucky Bluegrass

29.4

184

Timothy

19.6

122

Red top

21.2

132

Orchard Grass

19.4

121

Bromegrass

29.4

186

Big Bluestem

21.4

134

3.8 32.8 6.2 4.0 .26 .19

3.0 31.4 5.6 3.6 .16 .14

3.4 31.8 8.4 4.4 .18 .43

3.6 38.0 5.4 4.2 .16 .56

3.4 44.3 8.0 3.0 .12 .24

3.0 29.6 7.6 4.1 .29 .12

3/ Snider, H. J. - Bulletin 518,

AFG:bjs
1-25-49

-55 -

FUTURE PLANS.

The committee planning the field trip for the summer meeting of
the American Society of Agronomy at the University of Illinois has been
asked to consider including an inspection stop at one of the locations
in western or in southern Illinois where vegetation and reclamation work
is being carried on.

Seedings will be made during the following year in which major
emphasis will be placed on mixture seedings. Yield measurements, animal
gains, and other data will be collected so as to attempt to measure the
carrying capacity of various spoil bank pastures.

Plans are being made to again measure animal weights, using both
beef cattle and sheep as a method of determining forage yields.

Samples of forage material growing on the spoil banks will again
be taken at various times during the growing season so that the chemical
composition of the forage may be determined.

Bibliography:

1. Croxton, Y/. C. "Revegetation of Illinois Coal Stripper Lands" -

Ecology Volume IX Number 2, 1928.

2. Odell, R. "How Productive Are the Soils of Central Illinois" -

Illinois Agricultural Bulletin 522.

3. Snider, H. J. "Chemical Composition of Hay and Forage Crops" -

Illinois Agricultural Bulletin 518, 1946.

4. Tyner, E. H. and Smith, R.M. "The Reclamation of the Strip-Mined

Coal Lands of West Virginia with Forage Species" - Soil Sci-
ence Society of American Proceedings, Vol^ 10, p. 429-436, 1945.

NOTE: Tabular material relating to soils and source of seed referred
to herein have been separately reproduced in mimeograph form
as an appendix to this report and will be supplied upon request.

- 56 -

XJ ~_/ *

I-S&p

THE POTENTIALITIES OF REVEGETATING AND UTILIZING

AGRONOMIC SPECIES ON STRIP MINED AREAS

IN ILLINOIS

UN/v?

AGRICULTURE LIBRA!*

A PROGRESS REPORT

COVERING THE THIRD YEAR OF WORK ON A COOPERATIVE INVESTIGATION

CONDUCTED BY
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

AND
ILLINOIS COAL STRIPPERS ASSOCIATION

NOTE .

The agreement covering this investigation provides
that:- "No account of a cooperative research project shall be
published by the sponsor or by any other agency, except upon
approval of the division of the University, or head of the de-
partment in which the work is being done."

THE LIBRARY OF THt

jUN 1 9 A 51

Telephone CEntral 6-7044

ILLINOIS COAL STRIPPERS ASSOCIATION

307 NORTH MICHIGAN AVENUE *
CHICAGO 1, ILLINOIS

WILLIAM H. COOKE

PRESIDENT
CARL T. HAYDEN

VICE PRESIDENT

A. J. CHRISTIANSEN

SECRETARY-TREASURER

FOREWORD

To Members of Illinois Coal Strippers Association,

Gentlemen :

On February 1, 19l±7, Illinois Coal Strippers Associ-
ation entered into an agreement with the Agricultural Experiment
Station, University of Illinois, covering a project of cooperative
research into the possibilities of revegetating and utilizing
grasses and legumes on strip mined areas for stock range and other
purposes.

This project estimated to require five years of research
in order to arrive at sound conclusions, is now entering upon its
fourth year. A progress report covering the first year of opera-
tion issued on March 19, 19hQ dealt principally with the proposed
scope and plan of attack on the problem ; a survey of spoil bank
soils found throughout the state, and preliminary reports on a
number of seeding projects. A second report issued on March 15,
19h9 presented further information on spoil bank soil materials,
and comparisons of such materials with surface soils found on ad-
joining landj the adaptation of various forage species to spoil
bank soils; the results of preliminary studies of comparative gains
made by animals pastured on spoil banks with those pastured on un-
disturbed blue grass and highly improved grass -legume pasture.

operation

The report herewith presented covers the third year of

7 \ Secretary-Treasurer

March 6, 1950

AGRONOMY PROJECT

NUMBER: 1003 - Third Annual Report.

TITLE: Agronomic Land Use Research on the Mined Areas

of the Stripped Coal Lands of Illinois.

OBJECT: The objectives of the project are to investi-
gate the potentialities of revegetating
and utilizing agronomic species on the strip-
mined areas in Illinois.

LEADERS: A. L. Lang, R. E. Fuelleman, J. I. Spaeth, and
F. C. Francis.

Advisory Committee: -

Dean H. P. Rusk

W. L. Burlison

E. C, Bauer

J. C. Hackleman

J. N. Spaeth

A. J» Christiansen

Louis S. Weber

Agronomist - Alten E. Grandt.

- 6> jo

AGRONOMIC LAND USE RESEARCH ON THE MINED AREAS
OF THE STRIPPED COAL LANDS OF ILLINOIS

By Alt en F. Grand tU

This is the third annual report of progress made on Agronomy Project
1003, a cooperative research project of the University of Illinois Agricultural
Experiment Station and the Illinois Coal Strippers Association covering an
investigation of the potentialities of revegetating and utilizing agronomic
species on strip-mined areas in Illinois, While research on this type of
land use is seemingly slow and results in many cases are variable, definite
progress has "been made since the initiation of the project. The results in-
dicate conclusively that under a scientific approach the major part of the
strip-mined lands in Illinois can "be converted from unsightly tax liabilities
into lands that can "be covered with grasses, legumes, and livestock.

Over 1,900 experimental plots have "been laid out at 40 different
locations on 22 mine properties in 14 counties. Additional plots will "be
established in 1950. Figure 1 shows the general areas where plots are located.

SOIL ANALYSIS OF SPOIL BANK SOIL MATERIAL:

One-thousand-eighty-two soil samples have been collected and they
have all been tested by the University of Illinois soil testing laboratory.
Table 1 shows the average amounts of plant nutrients found in the soil material.
These tests show the average pH to be 6.9, the average available phosphorus
to be 124 pounds per acre, and the average available potassium to be 170
pounds per acre.

The usual pH for agricultural soils ranges from approximately 5«0
to 6.8. A pH of 7.0 is neutral. Varying with the species grown, the minimum

1/ Special Research First Assistant, Soil Experiment Fields and Crop Production,
Department of Agronomy, University of Illinois Agricultural Experiment
Station, Urbana.

The author acknowledges with thanks the assistance, advice, and encouragement
received from Mr. L. S. Weber, Land Use Engineer, Illinois Coal Strippers
Association, and Mr. H. J. Snider, Assistant Professor of Soil Fertility,
Illinois Agricultural Experiment Station, in conducting these investigations.

-2-

AGRONOMY DEPARTMENT, UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, URBANA

89*

JO DAVIESS STCPHCMSOH WINHtBAGO BOONl Mf-HCURf LAKl

Coal Compaq

OGLE

DCKALB

LA SALLE

KAH£ COOK

OUPA&t

KCNOALL

GRUNDY

L8#

WILL

\KAHXAKCt

Sahara
2-Ielta

3-fl-T (Elkville)
.B. (Fidelity)

amid
out hwe stern

idwest Radiant

olar

ittle Sister
ldf-Morgan
11-U.E. Buckheart
12 -U.S. Cuba
1>T-T. (Piatt H)
lil-Fairview
1J -M.E. (Rapateej
16-Little John t

IROQUOIS

16-Little John
17-M.B. (Shef:

20
21
22

mm,

3CAl£- STATUTE MILIS

18 -Morris-Northern
19 -Nor thern

-Wilmington

-Northern

-Ayrshire

tfrm i LiOH

M379

Location of Experimental Plots on Strip-Mined Coal Lands of Illinois

(Fig. 1)

-3-
Table 1.— Soil Analysis of Spoil Bank Material

No. of

Acidity

Phosphorus

Potassium

Plot locations

County

samples

average

Note

pH a/

ib.aj

lb.a/

Southern Illinois

Sahara

Saline

169

Shale
S. S.

rock

Delta

Williamson

6.2

110

T-T, Elkville

Jackson

6.3

155

Local

acid

(Truax-Traer)

spots

N. E. Fidelity

Perry

6.7

145

204

Local
spots

acid

Pyramid

Perry

7.1

154

Southwestern

Randolph

7.3

138

Calc.

rock

Midwest Radiant

St. Clair

175

7.1

116

131

Subtotal

438

6.6

105

147

Western Ulinoia

Solar

Schuyler

6.8

171

224

High percent

Little Sister

Fulton

7.7

157

179

Loess

Morgan

Fulton

7.1

178

230

W. Illinois

U. E., Buckheart

Fulton

7.7

101

134

U. E. t Cuba

Fulton

7.5

123

144

T. T., Fiatt

Fulton

7.8

146

155

Fairview

Fulton

6.5

133

167

M. E. Rapatee

Fulton-Knox

7.5

148

177

Little John

Knox

6.8

166

194

Subtotal

403

7.3

140

169

Northern Illinois

M. E. Atkinson

Bureau

7.4

157

264

Shaly

material

Northern Illinois

G-rundy

6.7

139

198

Shaly

material

Morris

Grundy

3.1

144

Highly acid

Wilmington

Will

7.7

161

Compact and

■

plasti

Northern Illinois

Kankakee

7.6

110

184

Compact and
plastic

Subtotal

241

6.8
6.9

127

209

Total and averages

1 082

122.7

169.2

a/ pH - 7.0 neutral; P - 92 lb/ A, h igh; K 150 - 200 lb/A high

-V

pH for optimum growth of most agricultural plants ranges "between 5*5 a ad
6.5.

Numerical values for the average mineral content of such highly
variable material should he used with reservation. For example, of 20 samples
tested in a single two-acre plot the pH varied from 2.7 to 7.1. The average
pH was 6.0+. The available potassium content varied from 105 to 300*f pounds
per acre, with the average being 186 pounds per acre. Yet only minor shifts
have resulted when additional samples are tested and added to the averages.
Thus the averages are assumed to be reliably representative. It should be
stressed again, however, that in planning the development of an area for a
specific use the soil material should be adequately sampled and thoroughly
tested. The reaction and mineral content of the soil greatly influence land
usage.

SPOIL BANK CLASSIFICATION:

As the result of the reconnaissance survey conducted by the Central
State Forest Experiment Station in 19*1-6, strip-mined lands in Illinois have
been classified on the basis of the acidity and texture of the soil material (2).
These two conditions are considered to be the basic factors that determine
potential productivity of spoils and are combined to form the basic spoil
types (see Table 2).

Acidity of Spoil Banks:

The acidity of the surface of the spoil banks varies greatly as does
the thickness and character of the strata overlying the coal. The overturned
strata, each differing in pH value precludes uniformity of soil reaction. In
view of this fact, a practical classification of these lands requires a
recognition of these varying conditions of acidity. A preliminary classification
based on acidity, has been as followi(2)i

-5-

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-6-

1. TOXIC BANKS: These are "banks having more than 75 percent of
the surface area classified as toxic. Where the pH is less
than 4.0 the soil is termed toxic, since a pH of less than
3.8 is lethal to most common economically important plants.
Approximately 1.0 percent of the total area stripped in
Illinois was classified as toxic.

2. MARGINAL BANKS: Fifty to 75 percent of the area of these hanks
is toxic, the remainder "being acid, calcareous, or mixed. The
area classified as marginal was approximately 1.3 percent.

3. ACID BANKS: The reaction of more than 50 percent of the area
of these banks was from 4.0 to 6.9. Most agricultural crops
grow on soils having a pH of 5-^ or higher. A minimum pH for
optimum growth of sweet clover and alfalfa is approximately 6.5.

4. CALCAREOUS BANKS: More than 50 percent of the surface area of
these "banks has a pH of 7.0 or more. Calcareous soils are
suitable for the growth of a wide variety of plants. Approximately
79 percent of the area stripped in Illinois as of 1946 falls in
this classification.

5. MIXED BANKS: These banks are so mixed that no acidity class is
predominant. By definition less than 51 percent of the area is
acid, less than 51 percent calcareous, and less than 50 percent
toxic. Patches of toxic, acid, and calcaxsous are about equal
in size, and of such proportions that the area cannot be placed
in any of the foregoing classes.

Texture of Soil Materials:

The materials in the overburden overlying the coal include loess,
gXaoial drift, sands, shales, slate, limestone, and sandstone rocks. The
variation in texture, acidity, and fertility of the spoil surface depends upon

-7-

the different kinds of strata overturned. Textural classification of strip-
mined lands, therefore cannot "be so exacting and detailed as for soils which
are usually derived from relatively uniform parent material. However,
certain "broad terfeural classes of spoils are recognized and grouped as follows:

A. SANDS: Sandy spoils are composed principally of sand, sandstone,
and sandy shales. Sandy spoils are coarse textured, drain
rapidly, and have low water retaining capacity. They are
usually low in fertility.

B. LOAMS AND SILTY SHALES: These are spoils composed mainly of
loamy material and silty shales. This group usually contains
rather high amounts of loessial material. Aeration and drainage
are good and the fertility level is generally high.

C. CLAYS: Clay spoils are composed largely of clay, the remaining
materials "being limestones and soft shales. The clay spoils
usually have high fertility and water retaining capacity, hut
"because of the high proportion of clay they are rather poorly
drained and aerated.

These two factors, namely acidity and texture, were combined to form
the "basic spoil types. Thus as of 19^6, 5^.7 percent of the strip-mined lands
in Illinois was classified as calcareous loams and silty shales, spoil type
Jj^B. Similarly, 8,662 acres or 21.8 percent were calcareous clay or spoil type
4~C. The present system is a method of adding organization in classifying a
heterogeneous mass of soil material. Changes will "be recommended should
future studies reveal the present system is inadequate.

FORAGE CHOPS SPECIES ADAPTATION STUDIES:

During the past three years, 1,964 plots have "been staked out and
seed and fertilizer applied. The plots have "been observed regularly and

-8-

results recorded. Most of the plots are on spoil type *HB (calcareous
loams and silty shales) and on spoil type ^C (calcareous clays), the two
dominant spoil type classes in Illinois. Approximately ?0 different species
and varieties have "been seeded under varying conditions.

Species Adaptation on Newly Mined Spoils:

Table 3 lists the forage and cultivated crop species that have
been seeded on the banks. Excellent results have been obtained with the
following legumes: Alfalfa, the sweet clovers, red clover, lespedeza,
birdsfoot trefoil, yellow trefoil, and Kudzu. Varying success has been o"b-
taiaed with Ladino, alsike clover, and the vetches. Figures 2-5 give a
pictorial record of legumes and grasses growing on the banks.

Orchard grass, the tall fescues, redtop, timothy, bromegrass,
bluegrass, and ryegrass have been the grasses that are best adapted. Reed
canary grass, western wheatgrass, side-oat grama, love grass, Canadian wild
rye, tall meadow oatgrass, Rhodes grass, the native grasses such as big and
little bluestem, Indian grass, and switch grass have been established with
varying success. The native grasses are very slow to become established.
The species that were seeded on the plots in the spring of 19^+8 first began
to show well during the late summer of 19^9.

In many instances alfalfa plants growing on the banks have been
observed to be rather heavy producers of seed clusters. According to Piper(3)
the factors affecting the production of seed are "thickness of stand, a
favorable moisture supply and conditions favorable for the tripping of the
flowers. Isolated plants produce most seeds. The beneficial effects seem
partly due to the increased sunlight received. Abundant moisture lessens
seed production, apparently because it stimulates the growth of new sprouts.

-9-

Tahle 3. — Forage Species to Be Seeded

Qraasga

Kentucky "bluegrass
Canada "bluegrass
Big l>luegrass
Canby "bluegrass
Redtop

Timothy

Reeds canary grass

Orchard grass

Bromegrass

Mountain "brome

Meadow fescue
Alta fescue
Che wings fescue
Creeping fescue
Ryegrass

Bermuda grass
Dallas grass
Crested wheatgrass
Slender wheatgrass
Western wheatgrass

Blue grama
Side-oat grama
Big "bluestem
Little "bluestem
Buffalo grass

Indian grass
Tall oatgrass
Canadian wild rye
Michael's grass
Rhodes grass

Switch grass
Meadow foxtail
Millets
Sudan
Sweet sudan

Love grass

"M* pasture mix

Fields pasture mix

Botanical Name

Poa prat ens is
Poa compressa
Poa ampla
Poa canbyi
Agrostis al"ba

Phlem pratense
Phragmites communis
Lactylis glomerata
Bromus inermis leyss
Bromus marginatus

Festuca pratensis

Festuca pratensis var. alta

Festuca rubra

Festuca rubra var. creeping

Loliura perenne

Cynodon dactylum
Paspalum notatum
Agropyron cristatum
Agropyron tenerium
Agropyron smithii

Bouteloua gracilis
Bouteloua curtipendula
Andropogon furcatus
Andropogon scoparius
Buchlae dactyloides

Sorghastrum nutans
Arrhenatherum elatius
llymus canadensis

Chloris gay ana

Panicum virgatum
Alcopecuris eliator
Setarla sp.
Sorghum h^lapense
(Cross) Sorghum halapense
x S. vulgare

Eragrostis currula

Calamagrostis epigea

-10-

Common Maine

Wheat

Oats

Rye

Corn

Soybeans

Table 3. — (cont'd) - Forage Species to Be Seeded

Cultivated Crops

Botanical Name

Triticum aestivum
Avena sativa
Secale cereale
Zea mays
Glycine max.

Legumes

Alfalfa

Sweet clover - yellow
Sweet clover - white
Hubam clover
Spanish sweet clover

Evergreen sweet clover
Lespedeza - common
Lespedeza - Korean
Lespedeza - Kobe
Lespedeza - Sericea

Mammoth clover

Alsike clover
Crimson clover
Subterranean clover
White Dutch clover

Ladino clover
Hop clover
Alyce clover
Austrian winter pea
Birdsfoot trefoil

Big broadleaf trefoil

Tellow trefoil

Kudzu

Lupines

Lappacea

Red clover, Kenland
Red clover, Cumberland
Red clover, Midland
Sanfoin
Crown vetch

Button clover
Persian clover
Wagner pea
Singletary pea
Hairy vetch

Medicago sativa
Melilotus officinalus
Melilotus alba
Melilotus annula
Melilotus suaveolus

Melilotus
Lespedeza striata
Lespedeza stipulacea
Lespedeza striata var.
Lespedeza sericea

Trifolium pratense var.

perenne.
Trifolium hybridum
Trifolium incarnatum
Trifolium subterraneum
Trifolium repens

Trifolium repens var. latum
Trifolium procumbens
Trifolium alyce
Pi sum sativa var.
Lotus corniculatus

Lotus uliginosus
Medicago lupulina
Pueraria chunbergiana
Lupinus sp.
Sfifolium lappaceaum

Trifolium pratense var.
Trifolium pratense var*
Trifolium pratense var.
Onobrychis vicioefolia
Vicia sp.

Medicago oebicularis
Trifolium reseysinatum
Lathyrue silvestris wagneri

Vicia villosa

(

-11-

Alta fescue plant growing on plots on the Delta Colleries
property, Williamson county. 19^9. (Fig. 2)

-12-

Alsike, red clover, and "birdsfoot plants, (left to right)
showing tope and roots, taken from plots on Morgan Coal
Company, Fulton county. 19^9. (Fig* 3)

-13-

Excellent growth of a pasture mixture on the top of a strike-off ridge. Pulton county,
W9. (Pig. *$

-1*4-

View into plot located on the Delta Colleriee property in Williamson county showing
several species (from left to right) alfalfa, "birdsfoot trefoil, lespedeza, and red
clover. 1949. Uig. 5)

-15-

Too little moisture also seriously reduce* seed yields." In many areas
application* of "boron has materially increased the setting of seed(l).

The stand of alfalfa growing on the slopes generally is not as thick
as on flat surfaces. The drainage on the slopes of the banks is good. Adequate
moisture is present to the deep-rooted legumes at all times. Then too the
mineral content of the soil material is favorable for good growth of legumes.
Thus the factors essential for seed production are met in the strip-mined soils
resulting in greater amount of seed being set than under normal Illinois
climatic conditions. Seed was collected from several areas during the 19**8
and 19**9 growing seasons for germination test. It was observed when threshing
the seed that there were many brownish, immature seeds along with the well -
developed seeds. Only well-developed seeds were used for the germination tests.
The results obtained are presented in Table b. Many of the hard seeds will
germinate. The well-developed seeds thus produced should result in natural
reseeding.

Ladino clover, a giant form of common white clover, has given good
results in several instances. The forage is high in protein, minerals, and
vitamins and is very palatable to livestock. As observed from the plots seeded,
Ladino does best in the valleys and rather poorly on southerly and westerly
exposed slopes. The reason for this unequal establishment lies in the fact that
more moisture accumulates in the low spots, also the higher temperatures on
the west and south slopes are less favorable for Ladino clover. Probably for
best results Ladino should be hand seeded in the valleys.

Kudzu, a viney, rapid growing, long-lived perennial plant that has
been used in the southern part of the United States for pasture purposes has
given good results. Acclimated root crowns from a midwestern source have

-16-

Tahle 4. — Results of Germination Tests of Alfalfa Seed^/ Collected From Plants

Growing on Strip-Mined Lands in 1949

Location where samples were collected

County Germination

Hard
seed

Dead
seed

4. United Electric Coal Companies

Fidelity Mine

5. Pyramid Coal Corporation

12. United Electric Coal Companies

Cuba Mine

13. Truax-Traer Coal Company

Eiatt Mine

14. Fairview Colleries

15. Midland Electric Coal Corporation

Rapatee Mine

19. Northern Illinois Coal Corporation

Morris Mine

20. Wilmington Coal and Mining Company

Perry

Perry
Fulton

Fulton

perct.

Fulton

Knox

Grundy

Will

§J The seed vras held at "below freezing temperatures for approximately 16 hours
before germination tests were run. Under Illinois climatic conditions
normally very little alfalfa seed is produced. Based on observation the
alfalfa grov/ing on the banks produces more seed clusters than alfalfa
growing on farm land. The germination percentages listed above compare
favorably vdth germination results listed on seed tags.

-17-

proved very adaptable to southern Illinois. Winterkilling was severe in
western Illinois. When good survival is obtained this specie will cover the
"banks rather completely in four to five years. As pasturage Kudzu is re-
cognized as having high feeding value.

Species Seeded in Pre- established Vegetation '

Plots were also staked out on older "banks already covered or
partially covered "by sweet clover, weeds, or other vegetation. The object was
to obtain a more desirable mixture by the addition of other species to established
sweet clover or to improve the mixture on banks covered mostly with weeds.
Approximately 130 plots of this type were seeded in 19^ and 19^+9 with very
little success.

Seeding other legume species into a dense stand of sweet clover vat
unsuccessful in their establishment. Reseeded grasses seemed to come in only
on east or north exposure slopes. Sweet clover, alfalfa, orchard grass,
redtop, and timothy were the species most easily established when seeded in to
weedy areas.

Fertility Treatment:

The plot design used in this experiment is shown in Figure 6. The
fertilizer applications were applied up and down the slopes at the rate of
750 pounds of 8-8-8 mixed fertilizer and 100 pounde of trace mineral fertilizer
materials per acre as shown. When limestone was nteded (one set of plots,
Saline county), it was applied at the rate of 5 tons per acre in the form of
hydrated lime. Throe locations were treated and seeded in the fall of 19^.
while two location! were completed in the spring of 19^9.

No response was noted as the result of the application of phosphorus,
potassium, and trace minerals. Nitrogen did increase the growth of fall seeded
grasses. It also increased weed growth tremendously. Fall applications of
nitrogen on newly seeded areas appear to be impractical. The application of

-18-

- 30

i «.

r-
I

■ —

—

3
5

—

13
7

—

— —

—

10
F, 12

Fertilizer application
750 lb. /A

A 8-8-8

B 8-8-8 plus trace elements

C 8-0-0 plus trace elements

D 8-0-0

E 8-8-0

F 8-0-8

0-6-8

H 0-0-0

240 • -
Forage species seeded

Pounds Rate
per per
plot acre

1. Kentucky blue grass

2. Brome

3. Redtop

4. Timothy

5. Orchard grass

6. Alt a fescue

7. Ryegrass

8. Sweet clover

9. Alfalfa

10. Red clorer

11. Ladino

12. Lespedeza

13. Birdsfoot trefoil

1.10
1.10
1.00

.85
1.10
1.10
1.10
1.10
1.10

.85

.33
1.40

.45

15
15
14
12

15
15
15
15
15
12

20
6

The plot design used for the fertility treatment experiment. (Fig. 6)

-19-

nitrogen on old established spoil "bank pastures which have reverted principally
to grasses may "be practical as a means of increasing productive capacity. This
problem is "being investigated.

Establishment of Mixtures:

Better pastures usually result when a mixture of grasses and legumes
is seeded than when a single specie is seeded. Based on plot results the
most satisfactory stands of desired species hate been obtained by seeding the
mixture in the spring of the year on newly mined areas. Fall seeding has not
proved satisfactory. At this time it is recommended to seed approximately
60 percent legumes and not more than 40 percent grasses in the mixture.

Mixtures that have been successful and are recommended are:

(1)

(2)

(3)

Total

per acre

lfc.

Alfalfa
Leaped eza
Sweet clover
Ladino

Orchard grass
Alta or K31 fescue
Timothy

3
3
2

Alfalfa
Lespedeza
Birdsfoot trefoil
Orchard grass

8
k

Alfalfa
Sweet clover
Red clover
Ladino

k
3
3

Orchard grass
Timothy

4
3

Alfalfa
Ladino

Bromegrass
Orchard grass

5
3

Rate and Time of Seeding:

The time of seeding and age of the banks are very important in
obtaining a good pasture cover. Spring seeding on newly mined spoils has been
most satisfactory. By seeding all the newly mined banks every year the growth

-20-

of undesirable weeds and trees nay "be reduced "because the vegetation seeded
competes with the undesirable species. -Probably the best time of year to
seed in Illinois is late February through March. Poor growth and survival
haw resulted when the seeding was done as late as April 15.

The rate of application of seed on the banks should be increased
about 25 percent over that normally applied to farm land, A minimum of
approximately 17 pounds of a mixture is recommended.

U 8 e of Hulching Materials:

Plots were seeded in the spring of 19**9 on the compact and plastic
till areas in northern Illinois on which strips of straw and manure mulching
were applied. Unless some strike-off work is done so that equipment can be
used, mulching would be impractical. Results of the effects of the mulching
material on the establishment of various species are incomplete at this time.

Use of Cultivated Farm Crops:

Cultivated crops were again seeded on areas that had been leveled.
Corn and soybeans planted in May, 19^9, in Fulton county, failed. Wheat and
rye seeded in the fall of 19^*8 in Knox county grew to maturity and yields were
taken. The results obtained are listed in Table 5. The application of
nitrogen only, results in very satisfactory stands of wheat and rye. There
has been little or no increase in yield through the application of phosphorus
and potassium fertilizers. Quality, as measured by test wieght, may hare been
increased some.

The yield of rye from a 7.5 acre level plot seeded by one of the
companies was 115 bushels, averaging 15.3 bushels per acre.

Horticultural Experimental Plots:

During the 19^9 season several horticultural crops were planted on
strip-mined lands to determine the growth, survival, and yield on these soils.

-21-

Ta"ble 5. — Wheat and Eye Yields on Leveled Area
Midland Electric Coal Corporation, Knox County

Treatment - elemental

nitrogen
I'all^/ SpringV

Wheat TDlot

Rye TDlot

Yield per

acre

est weight

Yield per

acre

Teat weight

Ifc.

lfe.

£&•

tt/&.

la.

iVta.

13.9

58.0

6.9

53.5

22.5

57.0

15.1

53.5

25.6

58.0

14.8

54.5

26.8

58.0

19.5

54.0

27.0

58.5

23.5

55.0

28.5

58.5

31.2

53.0

27.2

57.0

24.9

54.5

8-8-8fi/

25.3

58.5

23.8

56.0

Sj Fall application drilled with seed September 24, 1946.

i/ Spring application top-dressed March 25, 1949.

fi/ 75° pounds of 8-8-8 commercial fertilizer applied in the fall.

-22-

The following vegetable crops were seeded on a leveled and a strike-off area:
radishes, beets, carrots, green beans, lima beans, peas, cabbage, cauliflower,
tomatoes, watermelon, muskmelon, cucumbers, and sweet corn. Some produce of
all the species was realized. Tomatoes, muskmelon, green beans, and cabbage
grew best and gave good, edible produce.

DETERMINATION OF FORAGE YIELDS AND QUALITY:

Measurement of Forage Yields:

On seeded areas that have become satisfactorily established, hay
yields were obtained. This was done by cutting either two- or four-foot
square areas of forage. The forage was dried, weighed, and converted to yields
expressed in tons per acre. Table 6 gives the yield of several plots of legumes
and mixtures. Alfalfa and birdsfoot trefoil gave the greatest yields during
this season. All the legumes were from areas seeded in the spring of 19**6.
The mixtures represented by Lot 1 and Lot 3, were originally seeded in 1938
and 19^7, respectively.

The differences in yields from undisturbed areas (A) , strike-off
areas (B), or leveled areas (C) were difficult to determine because of the small
number of areas other than undisturbed spoils. A thorough study comparing the
yields from areas treated in the three ways should be made.

Hay yield data will be helpful in determining the carrying capacity
of spoil bank pastures. By comparing these yields with actual grazing
conditions more information concerning carrying capacity will be obtained.

Botanical Composition and Ground Cover:

Better stands of desirable vegetation and more complete ground cover
are usually obtained on north than on south slope exposures. Similarly
botanical counts of forage indicate that vegetation becomes better established
on strike-off tops than it does on the tops of the ridges. The point auadrat

-23-

TABLE 6. HAY YIELDS OF gORAgg PRODUCED ON SPOIL BASK PLOTS. 1949

Forage tpecie

Location

Property-

County

Type of
plote 2 ^

Yield per acre

Alfalfa
(3 cuttings)

Midwest Radiant
U.E. , Cuba Mine
M.E. Rapatee

Birdsfoot trefoil U.E. Fidelity
(3 cuttings) Midwest Radiant

Sweet clover

Red clover

Yellow trefoil

Lespedeza
Korean

Early Korean

Kobe

Sericea

Mixtures - on
established

istures -
.3 cuttings)

U.E. Cuba
M.E. Rapatee

Delta

U.E. Fidelity
U.E. Cuba
M.E. Rapatee

Midwest Radiant
U.E. Cuba
M.E. Rapatee

Delta

U.E. Fidelity

U.E. Cuba

Sahara
Delta

Truax-Traer
U.E. Fidelity
Pyramid
Southwestern
Midwest Radiant
Midwest Radiant
Midwest Radiant
Midwest Radiant

B. Somers (Lot l)
U.E. Fidelity (Lot 3)
Southwestern

St. Clair

Fulton

Knox

Perry

St. Clair

Fulton

Knox

Williamson

Perry

Fulton

Knox

St. Clair

Fulton

Knox

Williamson

Perry

Fulton

Saline

Williamson

Jackson

Perry

Randolph

St. Clair

Fulton

Perry

Randolph

21m.

lana

7 190

3.6

7 ^59

3.75

8 223

4.1

6 037

3.0 +

7 015

3.5

7 327

3.7

7 268

3.6

.0 056

5.0

1 788

5 460

2.7

2 35^

1.2

4 408

2.2

3 048

1.5

5 128

2.6

2 496

1.2

1 872

1 824

3 117

1.6

3 938

2.0 -

3 795

1.9

3 571

1.8

4 252

2.1

3 956

2.0 -

4 722

2.4 -

5 784

2.9

3 636

1.8

3 408 .

1.7

2 120

1.1

2 911

1.5

5 399

2.7

a/ A - undisturbed spoil banks. B - strike-off tops. C - level or partially level.

-ZUr

was used to determine the percent that each specie contributed to the pasture
sward and also the percent of the area that was hare. These readings were
taken on an established pasture in the spring and again in the fall of 19^.

In the spring the north slope was 91.7 percent covered with vegetation
compared to 75 percent for the south slope. There were approximately 15 percent
less weeds on the north than on the south exposed slopes.

A similar comparison was made "between strike-off tops and the tope
of undisturbed ridges. The strike-off tops were 96 percent covered compared
to 89 percent covered for the undisturbed tops. Weeds on the undisturbed tops
made up approximately 10 percent of the total vegetation compared to 2.5 percent
for the strike-off tops. In general, vegetation on strike-off tops contained
less weeds and covered the ground more completely than the ungraded tops.

Comparing the results of 19^ and 19^9 studies it is evident that
the grasses have contributed more to the percent of cover than the legumes
during the 19^9 season. There is evidence also that the weed population is
increasing as would be expected.

Chemical Composition of Forage Species?

This phase of the project, comparing the chemical composition of
spoil bank vegetation with that of surrounding Arm land, has been looked forward
to with a great deal of interest. In 19**8 samples of forage were collected from
the various spoil types in different locations at various times of the year and
the composition determined by chemical analysis. The averages are presented in
Table 7. Table 8 (**), which gives the chemical composition of forage crops
grown on Illinois farms over a period of years, is presented so that the
composition of the forage from the strip-mined lands can be compared with the
composition of forage grown on Illinois farm land.

In studying the chemical composition of plants, it is well to keep
in mind the influencing factors that may cause variations. Composition may

-25-

TABLE 7. C

IHEMICAL COK

[POSITION 0]

? i'ORASE CRC

PS GE

.OWN

ON STRIP-MINED

LAND IN 1948

Crop

Number of

samples

Protein

pet.

pet. pet.

pet.

Legumes '>

Alfalfa

2.95

18.4

1.48

1.80

.46

Red clover

2.61

16.3

1.47

1.73

.51

Alsike

2.88

18.0

1.97

1.55

.51

Ladino

2.77

17.3

1.32

1.55

.55

Birdsfoot trefoil

2.70

16.9

1.73

1.82

.69

Sweet clover

3.41

21.3

1.29

1.74

.44

May-June

Sweet clover

3.03

18.9

1.35

1.21

.47

September-October

Lespedeza, Korean

2.02

12.5

1.15

1.13

.33

Mammoth red clover

3.05

19.1

2.10

1.54

.49

White clover

3.10

19.2

.97

1.75

.55

Hubam

2.79

17.5

.83

1.65

.58

Yellow trefoil

2.80

17.7

1.70

2.05

.47

Lespedeza, Kobe

1.76

11.0

1.20

1.07

.33

Lespedeza, Sericea

2.17

13.6

. * . •

1.09

.33

Crimson clover

2.70

16.9

.16

1.52

2.10

.36

Button clover

2.10

13.1

,22

1.05

1.24

.56

Lappacea clover

1.40

8.8

,18

.85

1.82

.60

Austrian winter pea

3.80

23.8

.25

2.12

1.30

.30

Grasses:

Bromegrass

2.05

12.8

.29

2.30

.51

.25

Kentucky bluegrass

1.44

9.0

.23

1.56

.37

.24

Orchard grass

1.86

11.6

.27

2.44

.54

.36

Timothy

1.79

11.4

.28

2.27

.38

.22

Redtop

1.44

9.0

.17

1.64

.45

.30

Ryegrass

1.90

11.7

. . »

• • • •

.55

.27

Tall fescues

1.90

11.9

.28

• • • ♦

.60

.35

Rhodes grass

1.70

10.4

,22

• • • •

.42

.22

Canadian wild rye

1.80

11.1

,28

• • • •

.36

.23

Western wheatgrass

1.70

10.4

> . •

• • • •

.56

.27

Love grass

1.35

8.4

. • •

• • • •

.25

.12

Reed canary grass

1.90

11.9

.31

• • • •

1.00

.40

Tall oatgrass

1.30

8.1

. . •

• • • •

.60

.40

-26-

TABLE 8. HAY AMD FORA&E CROPS ; Chemical Composition

Orer a Period of Years. 5 '

Crop

lumber of

samplssi/ N Protein P

Lad i no

Birdsfoot trefoil

2.02

12.5

.15

3.56

22.2

.31

2.75

17.2

.19

1.50 1.22

Legumes:

pet.

pet,

pet.,

ficJL^

Alfalfa

2.75

17.2

.18

1.25

1.75

.49

Red elerer

2.37

14.8

.16

1.30

1.47

.46

Alsike

2.35

14. 7

.21

1.12

1.32

.53

Sweet cloTer

October-Novemoer

2.07

12.9

.11

.80

1.35

.62

Sweet clover
April-May

3.45

21.6

.30

1.60

1.64

.57

Lespedeza

2.02

12.5

.15

.95

.85

.29

.31

Grasses:

Kentucky blue grass

1.47

9.2

.19

1.64

.31

.20

Timothy

.98

6.1

.15

1.57

.28

.18

Redtop

1.06

6.6

.17

1.59

.41

.22

Orchard grass

.97

6.0

.18

1.90

.27

.21

Bromegrass

1.49

9.3

.17

2.21

.40

.15

sj Snider, H. J. "Chemical Composition of Hay and Forage Crops" Illinois
Agricultural Experiment Station Bulletin 518. 19*»6.

V Samples were taken from experiment fields and farms in various parts of
Illinois.

-27-

vary with the species, stage of growth, climatic conditions, productivity and
mineral content of the soil. Internal or external injuries by insects, diseases,
rodents, animals, or weather may also affect the composition of vegetation.

Legumes are relatively high in protein and minerals, and for this
reason are valuable as a feed. Grasses are lower in protein and certain minerals
hut are high in others, thus supplying the balance necessary for a good ration.

The influence of the soil material of the strip-mined lands on the
chemical composition and feeding value of the forage is revealed by the results
of tests made on over 1,000 soil samples. These tests show that Illinois spoil
bank soil material is high in phosphorus, potassium, and calcium. This high
content of minerals is probably a more logical explanation for the high quality,
palatability, and feeding value of the forage grown on the banks than the often
suggested possibilities of the rather glamorous trace element theory.

The following auotation supports this thought (5): "Nitrogen,
phosphorus, potassium, and calcium are quality elements in feed crops. Classed
among the soft elements, they are also chemically active. When soils contain
sufficient quantities of the chemically active elements in available form,
the crops take them up readily in preference to other less desirable elements
which are not so chemically active. A large supply of soft elements tends to
improve quality and palatability."

The one element limiting high quality forage production on the banks
in Illinois, is nitrogen. However, it can be economically supplied through
the use of nodulated legumes or possibly the use of commercial nitrogen.

Animal Gains as a Method of Measuring Tield and Quality:

The quality of forage and the value of strip-mined land for agricultural
production may be determined by measuring animal gains through livestock grazing

experiments. This is the second year during which two lots of steers have

i
grazed on strip-mined pastures, and the gains compared with gains made by two

-28-

lots that grazed on undisturbed land. The grazing tests were carried out on
lands owned by Mr. Byron Somers in Fulton county and on lands owned by the
United Electric Coal Companies and the Meadowlark Farms, Inc. in Perry county.

Twenty yearling steers of good grade were used in each of the two
counties. Ten steers were grazed on spoil bank lands, while the same number
were run on ordinary pasture as a check or control group. The control pasture
used in Fulton county was an 80-acre bluegrass pasture within a mile of the area
grazed by the test group. The control pastures used in Perry county were on
improved lands. From April 22 to June 30 the steers grazed on a pasture mixture
of timothy, redtop, and Ladino clover. Sudan grass furnished the pasturage
from July 1 to July 26, after which the steers were turned onto lespedeza
pastures. These pastures were located approximately 20 miles from the test
group.

The spoils pasture in Fulton county on which the test was made was
the same pasture that was used in 19^8. The banks are well covered with good
pasture forage. Bluegrass, bromegrass, wild grasses, sweet clover, and alsike
clover made up approximately 85 percent of the pasturage species.

The Perry county pasture area is not as well established, having been
first seeded in the spring of 1W. Sweet clover, lespedeza, bluegrass, and
wild grasses made up most of the forage during the 19^9 pasture season.

-29-

The results obtained, in terms of animal gains, during the 178-day
pasture season were:

Av. wt. . Av. wt. . Ay. total Av. daily

April 20 +1 Oct. 15 j* gain V gain 17

lfc. Ifc. li. JJfe.
JOLTON COUNTY TEST

Lot 1, test steers, spoils^ 707 881 174 .98

Lot 2, control steers, bluegrass 704 899 195 1.M

PERRY COUNTY TEST

Lot 3, test steers, spoils^ 681 831 150 .8**

Lot 4, control steers, improved pasture 712 909 197 1»11

i/ Weights at Urbana, April 20, before the cattle were trucked to their respective
pastures and at Urbana on October 15, the day following their return.

2j Average initial and final weights of 9 steers.

2j Average initial and final weights of 7 steers.

Table 9 gives the individual weights of each steer before and after
the pasture season and shows the difference in individual gains. For the 40
steers the total gain made while on pasture varied from a low of 130 pounds to
a high of 250 pounds per head. Figure 7 shows steers utilizing spoil bank
pastures.

For the second straight year the animal gains made on the spoil bank
pastures were nearly as good as those made on the bluegrass and improved grass-
legume pastures. This is gratifying since it definitely shows that the seemingly
"waste lands" can be returned to profitable agricultural production.

ECONOMIC INTERPRETATIONS:

Methods, Costs, and Feasibility of Forage Species Establishment:
Several methods are used to seed the strip-mined lands in Illinois.
The earliest method used was to seed the forage species by hand seeders. This
method is still used. The total labor charge for hand seeding an 80-acre area
in 1948 was $1.95 per acre. It required 184 man-hours to seed the 80 acres.

-30-

TABLE 9. DATA SITING INDIVIDUAL WEIGHTS OF

STEERS PASTURED IN 1949

Tattoo

Weight

Gain on

Tattoo

Weight

Gain on

Apr. 20

Oct. 15

pasture

Apr. 20

Oct. 15

pasture

Fulton

County

it..

Ifc*

Ik.

Uu.

11*

201

710

860

150

202

750

990

240

205

660

850

190

206

660

880

220

209

720

900

• 180

210

750

910

160

213

680

870

190

214

690

940

250

217

710

870

160

218

760

970

210

221

770

940

170

222

690

870

180

225 ,

710 .

940

?30

226

660

840

180

?29&/

7003/

910*/

1905/

230

710

940

230

233

710

860

150

234

640

780

140

237

690

840

150

238

730

870

140

Averages

707

881

174

Ay er ages

704

899

195

Perry County
Lot 3 — Spoil "bank pasture* Lot 4 ~- Iaproved grass-leguae pasture

203
207
211

215
219 ,
223^

231*/
235fc/
239

690

680

630

770

650 .

710 s /

690 v/
76W

690V

660

At er ages 681

860

820

760

940

760 .

030&/

91oV
...V
830

831

170
140
130
170

320 s /

l60 V
150V

170
150

204

700

880

180

208

750

890

140

212

720

960

240

216

710

920

210

220

770

930

160

224

670

850

180

228

670

890

220

232

740

960

220

236

710

920

210

240

680

890

210

Averages 712

909

197

a/ Fed corn during part of pasture season. Not included in average.

i/ Part of pasture season not on the spoils pasture. Not included in average.

-31-

§
o

d
o

—

A
o

■H

o
e

&
*>

■a

o
ft

as
u

-32-

They were paid at the rate of 85 cents per hour.

Since 19^5 the airplane has "been used rather extensively to seed
strip-mined areas. The average fee charged has "been "between 50 to 95 cents
per acre. In 1946, 1»500 acres were seeded in 26 hours. The helicopter was
first used in 1948 to seed the spoil banks. The rate charged for helicopter
service has been 6 cents per pound. Air seeding rates quoted do not include
labor costs that are required to inoculate and mix the seed, and load it into
the plane. In some cases the pilot is guided by men with flags. These costs
must be added to the total costs.

In the spring of 1949 an area was seeded with a power seeder mounted
on a farm tractor. During the summer of 1948 the tops of all ridges had been
knocked off to a width of 12 to 16 feet. Approximately 250 hours of man labor
were required to seed 600 acres of these spoils. Of this total, it required
110 tractor and tractor-man hours, and 66 hours of supervisory time. The
remaining labor was used to get the seed ready to be sown. On this job
approximately 2.4 acres were seeded per man hour. Operating costs of tractor
and seeder must be added to the total costs.

In observing and checking the results of the various methods used, it
seems that the most satisfactory stands have been received by hand seeding.
"Stripping" or missing of areas has been the comon fault of air seeding.
Reseeding is then necessary. Even though flagmen are often stationed to guide
the plane many pilots evidently do not follow them. In some cases the width
of seed spread may not be as wide as had been estimated. The helicopter used
in 1949 estimated covering a strip 60-feet each trip. Actually a strip of
45-50 feet was covered adequately. Where mixtures of light and heavy weight
seeds are seeded by the air method there is a tendency for the lighter weight seeds
to be carried to one side. This is more pronounced on windy days (see Figure 6)*
Where the tractor mounted seeder was used the valley and lower end of long slopes

-33-

Eesults of air seeding of a hromegrass-alfalfa mixture with the lighter weight
"bromegrass seeds having drifted to the left side. 19^9. (Fig. 8)

-34-

were not covered adequately. Where the slopes are long and the ridges far
apart the complete ridge is not covered, "because the seed cannot he thrown
far enough hy the seeder. Natural seeding will undoubtedly cover the valleys
in time. Where seedling counts were taken the tops had an average of 19 plants
per square foot compared to 8 plants per square foot on the sides.

Accessibility After Establishment and Financial Beturns:

In developing a mined area for pasture, accessibility throughout the
area is of prime importance. Those who have had experience in managing livestock
on strip-mine pastures are in accord with the recommendation and need for
adequate roadways. The term adequate is extremely relative. Usually too few
roadways are made rather than too many.

Limited information indicates that the cost of knocking off the tops
of all ridges has varied from approximately $5 per acre for a 12 to 16 foot
width to $30 per acre for an approximate 30 foot width. Pasture establishment
is more easily accomplished when the tops of all ridges are graded. More study
and comparisons regarding costs and advantages gained must be made to determine
the facts on this phase of the project.

Advantages of striking off all ridges are: (l) access roadways can
be chosen from the highest and best located ridges and maintained as roadways,
(2) all the banks are more easily accessible making management practices
easier, especially giving better control of livestock, (3) the area can be
seeded more easily by hand or power seeders; these methods of seeding have
been most satisfactory from the standpoint of stand and ground cover obtained,
(4) preliminary botanical counts of forage indicate that vegetation becomes
better established on strike-off tops than it does on the tops of the ridges,
and (5) vegetation on the strike-off tops contained less weeds than the un-
graded tops.

-35-

Fencing is a major expenditure required "before the lands can "be
adequately used for pasture. The outside fence should "be woven wire. Three
s,trands of four-point barbwire are adequate for division and internal field
fences where cattle are to "be used.

The use of a Multiflora rose fence is "being studied. If the rose
will make satisfactory growth and survival, it will "be practical to use the
rose for extensive fence "building on strip-mined lands. On farm land in
central Illinois, potentially effective "barriers to livestock have "been pro-
duced after the fourth growing season following installation (6).. A comparison
of average costs per year of woven wire fence and a living Multiflora rose fence
is given in Table 10.

The factor that will determine the extent of development and future
use of mined areas is the financial returnsrealized from the use of strip-mined
pasture lands. Detailed costs (expenses and receipts) of developed pastures
are not available. According to information supplied by the Illinois Coal
Strippers Association the net income from a 600-acre unit averaged $7 per acre
annually from 1939 to 19*6. In 19^ the net income was approximately $9.70
per acre.

Financial returns on these pastures are dependent on the gains made
by and price of livestock. Some physical factors or standards are available
for estimating probable returns. The average daily gains made by project steers
during the 19^+8 and 19^9 pasture seasons have been just over one pound per head.
The length of the pasture season the last two years averaged approximately 175
days. Estimates of the carrying capacity of strip-land pastures have varied
between 2 to b acres per animal unit. Assuming 3 acres per animal unit, one
pound gain per day, and a 180-day pasture season, one acre of strip-land pasture
will produce 60 pounds of animal gains. If by good management the carrying
capacity can be increased to 1 1/2 to 2 acres per animal unit, and the daily gains

-36-

TABLl 10* COMPARISON OF AVERAGE COST PER I3SAR 0? WOVEN
WIRE FENCE AND MULTI FLORA EOSE LIVING FENCB&/

Standard woven wire fence

Multlflera rose living fence

Cost of Establishment

320 Hods - woven wire (No. 39-

9, 9 f 11)
640 Rods ~ barbwire, 4 point

16 Brace posts 8'10 M at $1.50
424 Line posts 7* , 3 1/2" tops
-12 • apart at 70 cents
24 Pounds of staples at 9 cents
Man labor and truck at
75 cents per nan
1/2 Acre of land at $150/A

Total for Establishment

$256.00 3520

38.00

24.00

296.80

500

2.16

96.00

1 1/4

75.00

1-0 rose seedlings 15" $102.08

apart at $29/M
Hours labor at 75 cents 45.00
Acre site preparation - 25.00

plowing, harrowing
Fill in stock - replant- 14.50

ing - 1st year at $29/M
Hours labor at 75 cents 9.00
Acres of land at $150/ A 187.50

$787.96 Total for Establishment

$383.08

Cost of Maintenance

Total maintenance and replacement $ 42.77 Yearly depreciation (longevity $ 15.32
cost (6$ of above) calculated at 25 years)

Interest on Investment

Annual interest on capital in-
vestment (3^ simple interest)

$ 23.63 Annual interest on capital in- $ 11.49
vestment (3$ simple interest)

Annual Cost

Total maintenance and interest $ 66.40 Total maintenance and interest $ 26.81
on investment on investment

a/ Wand ell, W. N. "Agricultural and Wildlife Values of Habitat I

mprovement
ansae t ions of the

-37-

remain at one pound per day, from 90 to 120 pounds of animal gains may "be
produced per acre. Current prices can then be used to compute probable re-
turns.

More information is needed on the carrying capacity of strip-mined
pastures and the average daily gains that can be expected by various grades
of cattle for a more thorough understanding of potential returns.

By following a planned, long-range program the costs and problems
of establishing a profitable farm unit or organization, the nucleus of which
is the strip-mine land, can be greatly reduced. To accomplish this two things
need to be done*, (l) the lands that do not contain mineable coal, and which
make up a part of every mine property, must be improved and maintained as soon
as control is acquired, and (2) the mined land must be developed progressively
each year and utilized as soon as it is ready to produce. The most concentrated
use of these lands will be made in this way, — by incorporating the spoil banks
with surrounding farm land into a well organized farm unit.

DISSEMINATION OF INFORMATION:

A tour through sections of the strip-mined lands in southern Illinois
by a small group of members attending the summer meeting of the American Society
of Agronomy at the University of Illinois, was conducted on June 16, 19^9.

Those attending were:

D. E. Alexander, Graduate Student, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois

L. F. Bauman, Illinois Agricultural Experiment Station, Urbana, Illinois

H. P. Boles, Missouri Pacific Railroad, St. Louis, Missouri

R. Jugenheimer, Illinois Agricultural Experiment Station, Urbana, Illinois

J. K. Lindsey, Spencer Chemical Company, Monticello, Illinois

R. Ma, Graduate Student, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois

R. Metzger, Graduate Student, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois

H. E. Myers, Head, Department of Agronomy, Kansas State College, Manhattan, Kansas

D. Russell, Iowa State College, Ames, Iowa

D. VanAken, Spencer Chemical Company, Wichita, Kansas

L. S. Weber, Illinois Coal Strippers Association, Springfield, Illinois

-38-

A paper, Agronomic Research on the Strip Banks in Illinois, was
read at the 19^9 convention of the National Coal Association which was held
October 5-7 in Hew York City, New York. The paper was in the nature of a
progress report on the findings of research conducted by this project.

A "brief report was given at the Twenty-First Cattle Feeder ! s
meeting of the results of the 19**9 pasture grazing experiment. This was the
second year during which two lots of steers grazed on strip-mined pastures,
and the gains compared with gains made "by two lots that grazed on undisturbed
land.

FUTURE PLANS

Many of the phases of the project that are now in progress will be
continued and expanded. These will include seedings of species that have given
indication of value and require further study, expansion of spoil type studies,
forage yield measurements, animal gains, analysis for chemical composition, etc.

In addition more study will be given to the toxic acid condition
prevalent in certain areas and the location of material in the highwall that
is the source of the sulphur. Infiltration studies have been initiated on the
major spoil types that have been treated in different ways. This study is to
measure the infiltration on undisturbed spoil banks, strike-off tops, and
leveled areas, both bare of vegetation and well vegetated to determine the
effect of compaction.

A study of the bacteriological life of the material of the banks is
being made. This is to note the difference in the microbiological life of the
toxic acid spots compared to that in an area where the vegetation is growing
satisfactorily.

More information of an economic nature will be gathered to determine
the feasibility and possibilities of using the stripped land along with un-
disturbed place land.

-39-
Bihliography

1. Hunger signs in crops. A symposium. The American Society of Agronomy

and the National Fertilizer Association, Washington, D. C. 1949.

2. Limstrom, G. A. Extent, character and forestation possibilities of

land stripped for coal in the central states. Central States Forest
Experiment Station Technical Paper 109. 1946.

3. Piper, C. 7. Forage plants and their culture. The MacMillan Company,

Nev York. 1949.

4. Snider, H. J. Chemical composition of hay and forage crops. Illinois

Agricultural Experiment Station Bulletin 518. 1946.

5. . Soil treatment adds quality to crops. Illinois Agricultural

Experiment Station Ag. 1387. 1948.

6. Wandell, ¥. N. Agricultural and vildlife values of hahitat improvement

plantings on the Illinois "black prairie. Transactions of the Thirteenth
North American Wildlife Conference. Wildlife Management Institute,
Washington, D. C. 1948.

AFO:lap
2-14-50

%%z? lSs ,

THE POTENTIALITIES OF REVSGETaTING AND UTILIZING

AGRONOMIC SPECIES ON STRIP MINED AREAS

IN ILLINOIS

A PROGRESS REPORT

COVERING THE FOURTH YEAR OF WORK ON A COOPERATIVE INVESTIGATION

CONDUCTED BI
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS , AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

AND
ILLINOIS COAL STRIPPERS ASSOCIATION

NOTE .

The agreement covering this investigation provides
that:- "No account of a cooperative research project shall be
published by the sponsor or by any other agency, except upon
approval of the division of the University, or head of the de-
partment in which the work is being done."

THE LIBRARY OF THE

SEP 2 4 1951

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS

Telephone CEntral 6-7044

WILLIAM H. COOKE
PRESIDENT

CARL T. HAYDEN

VICE PRESIDENT

ILLINOIS COAL STRIPPERS ASSOCIATION

307 NORTH MICHIGAN AVENUE
CHICAGO 1, ILLINOIS

A. J. CHRISTIANSEN

SECRETARY-TREASURER

FOREWORD

To Members of Illinois Coal Stripoers Association

Gentlemen:

On February 1, 19U7, Illinois Coal Strippers Associ-
ation entered into an agreement with the Agricultural Experiment
Station, University of Illinois, covering a project of cooperative
research into the possibilities of revegetating and utilizing
grasses and legumes on strip mined areas for stock range and other
purposes.

This project estimated to require five years of research
in order to arrive at sound conclusions, is now entering upon its
fifth year. A progress report covering the first year of opera-
tion issued on March 19, 19U8 dealt principally with the proposed
scope and plan of attack on the problem; a survey of spoil bank
soils found throughout the state, and preliminary reports on a
number of seeding projects. The second report issued on March l£,
19U9* and the third report issued on March 6, 19^0, presented fur-
ther information on spoil bank soil materials, and comparisons
of such materials xd.th surface soils found on adjoining landj the
adaptation of various forage species to spoil bank soils; the re-
sults of preliminary studies of comparative gains made by animals
pastured on spoil banks with those pastured on undisturbed blue
grass and highly improved grass-legume pasture and the utilization
of stripped land for pasture.

The report here presented covers the fourth year of opera-

tion.

The studies being made during 1951 will complete the pro-
gram under the agreement and a final report will be issued next
year.

March 1, 19$1

AGRONOMY PROJECT

NUMBER:
TITLE:

OBJECT:

LEADERS:

1003 - Fourth Annual Report.

Agronomic Land Use Research, on the Mined Areas
of the Stripped Coal Lands of Illinois,

The objectives of the project are to investi-
gate the potentialities of revegetating
and utilizing agronomic species on the strip-
mined areas in Illinois.

A* L. Lang, R. F. Fuelleman, J. H. Spaeth, and

R. R. Snapp.

Advisory Committee: -

Dean H. P. Rusk

W. L. Burlison

F. C. Bauer

J. C. Hackleman

J* N. Spaeth

A* J. Christiansen

Louis S. Weber

Agronomist - Alt en F. Grandt.

AGRONOMIC LAND USE RESEARCH OH THE MIKED AREAS
OF OHE STRIPPED COAL LANDS OP ILLINOIS
by Alten F. Grandt^'

The fourth annual report of progress on Agronomy Project 1003,
covering the lnvesti gat ions of the potentialities of revegetating and utili-
zing agronomic species on strip-mined areas in Illinois is herewith presented*
This is a cooperative research project of the University of Illinois Agri-
cultural Experiment Station and the Illinois Coal Strippers Association* &e
report is an account of progress being made and thus necessarily reviews much
of what was stated in previous reports*

The Illinois Coal Strippers Association reports that 46,703 acres
of land have been mined by the strip-mining method in Illinois as of January 1,
1950* The acreage mined during 195° has not been compiled at this time but
an estimate of 2,5°° acres would bring the total acreage strip mined as of
December 31, 1950* to approximately 49,200 acres. Of this acreage 11,246 acres
have been planted to trees and there has been a natural encroachment of forest
species on 2,500 acres* Approximately 100 acres have been planted to orchard
species* Lakes, recreational areas, and state parks utilize approximately
4,000 acres* A greater proportion, approximately 15»600 acres have been seeded
for livestock range or pasture use. Thus approximately 15*754 acres or 32
percent of the total land mined in the state has had no treatment or use* This
is considered totally unimproved land*

Approximately 40 acres in widely scattered areas have been used for
experimental plots in this project* Figure 1 shows the general areas where

1/ Special Research First Assistant, Soil Experiment Fields and Crop Production,
Department of Agronomy, University of Illinois, Agricultural Experiment
Station, Urbana*

The author acknowledges with thanks the assistance, advice, and encouragement
received from L* S* Weber, Land Use Engineer, Illinois Coal Strippers
Association, and H* J* Snider, Assistant Professor of Soil Fertility,
Illinois Agricultural Experiment Station, in conducting these investigations*

-2-

AGRONOMY DEPARTMENT, UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, URBANA

al Compinies

$ahara
elta
•T (IlkTlll

US. (Fidelity

•amid
Southwestern
tidweet Badlai
dnsr —

ittle Sister
Morgan

•U.E, ftickheejpi
12-U.E. Cn"ba
13-T-T (llatt #2]

-Fairriev

-M.S. (Bapatee]
Id-Little John
I7 -M.E. (SUeffleid)

lq-Morri s-Nor thern

ILLINOIS

3CAl£- STATUTE MILtS

e » to »o » n

19 -Northern

20 -Wilmington

21 -Northern

22-Ayrshirs
23 l-Sealnole

«r

M379

Location of Experimental Plots on Strip-Mined Coal Lands of Illinois

(n«. i)

-3-

these plots have been established.
SOIL STUDIES:

Soil Analysis of Strip-Nine Soil Material:

■s

As of December 31, 1950* 1,3 2 ^ soil samples have been collected from
the experimental plot areas and all have been tested by the University of
Illinois soil testing laboratory* In addition numerous field tests have been
taken. Table 1 shows the average amounts of plant nutrients found in the
soil material* The over-all average of these tests show the pH to be 6*96,
the available phosphorus to be 130 pounds, and the available potassium to be
172 pounds per acre* Of 684 samples reported on in the first animal report
the averages were found to be as follows: pH - 6*8; available phosphorus -
122 pounds; and available potassium - 166 pounds* Several hundred additional
tests did not markedly change the over-all averages reported that first year*

In addition to the testing done on the experimental plot areas
several areas were sampled on a more extensive basis* The strip-mined soil
material of two townships in Knox county was tested* The results of testing
366 soil samples gave an average pH of 7*4, 153 pounds of available phosphorus
and 177 pounds of available potassium* These averages are almost identical
with the averages reported in Table 1 for western Illinois*

Another block of strip-mined land in southern Illinois was also
more extensively studied* The following results in terms of averages were
found: the average pH was 6*8, the available phosphorus was 119 pounds, and
the available potassium was 152 pounds* These averages are very similar to
the average of the 519 samples tested in southern Illinois*

Thus, based on soil reaction or pH and available nutrient content
the strip-mined lands in Illinois can be broadly classified as being potential-
ly excellent for the production of forage crops* However, when contemplating

-4~

Table 1.— Soil Analysis of Spoil Bank Material

Plot locations

County

Number of
samples

Acidity
average

Phosphorus Potassium

average

averag e

Note

Southern Illinois

Sahara

Saline

Delta

Williamson

T~T Elkville

Jackson

TJ. E. Fidelity

Perry

Pyramid

Perry

Southwestern

Randolph

Seminole

Sto Clair

Midwest Radiant

St. Clair

175

Subtotal and averages

519

Western Illinois

Solar

Schuyler

Morgan

Fulton

Little Sister

Fulton

TJ. F. Buckheart

Fulton

TJ. E. Cuba

Fulton

T-T Fiatt

Fulton

Fairview

Fulton

M. E. Rapatee

Ful ton-Knox

120

Little John

Knox

M. E. Atkinson

Henry

pH-

6.3
6,2
6.6

7.3
7.3
7.6

7.1

6,6

lb,

92
108
155
93
82
126
116

113

6.8

171

7.1

178

7.7

157

7.6

112

7.5

123

7.8

146

6.7

144

7.4

157

6.9

17^

7.3

17^

169

134
177

208
160
138
168
131

155

Shale and
S. S. rock

(Local acid
(spots

Loessal

224

High percent

230

of loess in

179

W. Illinois

133

144

155

172

167

192

288

Subtotal and averages

520

7.3

154

177

Northern Illinoi s

M. F. Sheffield Bureau
Northern Illinois Grundy
Morri 8 Grundy

Wilmington Will
Northern Illinois Kankakee

Subtotal and averages

Eastern Illinois
Harmattan

Total and averages

Vermilion

7.5

145

211

|shaly

6.9

142

192

3.1

144

Highly acid

7.6

170

(Compact and

7.6

110

184

(plastic

263

1 324

6.9

6.7

6.96

121

130

-' pH - 7.0 neutral; P - 92 lb/A, high; K 150-200 lb/A high

189

201

Compact and
plastic

172

-5-

a use for a particular area of 8 trip-mined lands thorough sampling and testing
are very important, The reaction and mineral content of the soil material
greatly influence land usage and wide variation often occurs within relatively
small areas*

Grading of Strip-Mine Land:

There has been much discussion of the pros and cons of grading or
leveling in the strip-mine reclamation program* The character of the physical
texture of the soil material and the eventual land use are of prime importance
when considering grading* In several areas of Illinois the high percentage
of loese and glacial till material, the low percentage of rock, the chemical
composition of the soil material, and the methods of mining appear to make
grading feasible*

The effects of grading on soil structure, on the availability of
plant nutrients, and on the growth of forage are being investigated* Two
degrees of grading are being considered (l) grading to permit the use of power
farm machinery, and (2) topping of the ridges or "strike-off" grading* In
strike-off grading there is a minimum amount of compaction due to mechanical
equipment, since the bulldozer makes at most only two runs along a ridge* To
grade the mined land to the extent that farm power equipment can be used means
that the grading equipment passes over the surface many more times* Therefore
It is assumed that the compaction resulting from the more complete leveling
would probably be greater than in strike-off grading*

One study that is being conducted to determine the effects of grading
on soil structure is an infiltration rate* This is the rate at which rain
water passes downward into and through the soil* Three physical conditions
of the mined land are selected, i.e., (1) undisturbed ridges or banks, (2)
strike-off tops, and (3) nearly level, (access by farm equipment)* Each of

-6-

the three types of physical conditions is analyzed tinder two phases of vege-
tation, i.e., well vegetated with legumes, and bare of vegetation. These
studies are being carried on in southern andwestern Illinois on the two major
spoil types, namely* calcareous clays and calcareous loams, and silty shales.

The study is Incomplete so a full report cannot be made at this
time* The work on the undisturbed ridges has not been completed so the com-
parisons between no grading and strike-off grading or more complete grading
or leveling cannot yet be made. However, It has been found that there is no
difference in the infiltration rate due to strike-off grading versus more
complete grading. This would seem to Indicate that the probability of greater
compaction on the more completely graded area as mentioned above may be in
error or the effect of the greater compaction Is very temporary. Vegetation
and time after grading does Improve the rate of Infiltration. Deep-rooted
legumes and weathering, such as freezing and thawing and alternate wetting
and drying, result In an Increased rate of infiltration.

Another study is the effect of grading on the availability of
plant nutrients. Table 2 shows the effect of grading on the reaction or pH
of the soil material and on the availability of phosphorus and potassium.
The effect on reaction or pH was variable. In some cases the pH was lowered
by grading. The pH of a calcareous loam soil (loessal) as found on the
Midwest Radiant Corporation property was lowered 1 unit from ?•** to 6.4.
Most others were changed to a lesser extent. Conversely on a calcareous clay
as found on the Fidelity property the pH was raised. The average pH, however,
remained about the same.

Without exception the available phosphorus content was raised as a
result of grading. The average Increase due to grading was approximately 56
pounds per acre. Several of the areas were raised to 200 pounds plus, so

-7-

Table 2.~«5ffect of Grading on the Soil Reaction and
Availability of Phosphorus and Potassium

Location

Number of
camples pH

Spoil type

3. Truax-Elkville

7. Midwest Radiant

11. U. K. Buckheart

13. Truax-Piatt

14. lairview

15* M. E. Bapatee

16. Little John

17* M. E. Atkinson

Not graded 20
Graded (level) 15

Hot graded
Graded

ded / 13
(8.0. P 13

Not graded 20

Graded (Level) 12

Hot graded 28

Graded (Level) 15

Hot graded 12

Graded(l)(S.O.) 12

Graded(2)£/&0.) 10

Hot graded 32

Graded (Level) 32

Hot graded 8
Graded (Level) 8

Hot graded 16

Graded (S.0.) 20

Hot graded 26

Graded (Level) 38

19. Horthern Illinois Hot graded 5

Graded (S.0.) 15

Over-all average Not graded 180

Graded 190

Plus or minus
for grading

6.3
6.0

7.7
7.3

7.7
7.6

6.3
7.5
7.3

7.8
7.1

7.7
7.8

7.2
7.2

7.4
7.3

8.0
7.2

58
174

155

207

7.4 116 107
6.4 161 125

94 143

148 128

144 154

200+ 191

131 148

141 153

195 196

127 114

200+ 247

162 152
200+ 164

167 180
200+ 185

152

174

151

154

285
288

150
179

7.37 122.4 163.I
7.36 179.2 207.7

- .01 +56JB +44.6

5-C mixed
clays

4-5 calcareous

loam 8

*4-C calcareous
clay

4-C calcareous
clay

^4-B calcareous
loam 8 and
silty shales

4-B calcareous
loams and

silty shales

4-B calcareous
loams and

silty shales

^-C calcareous
clay

4-B calcareous
loam 8 and
silty shales

4-1 calcareous

loams and
silty shales

S.0. Strike-off, top of ridge knocked off,

2 Two different locations graded.

-8-

** .

■ « .

<^^m9^m~

••Aft* ' -.'— • £v

r\ ;%

•

* * .-

Several mined areas in Illinois are "being graded to a more or less level condition.
This large, heavy drag was being used on the graded areas to prepare a more suita-
ble seedbed. (Fig. 2)

-9-

undoubtedly the total was actually raised more than 56 pounds per acre. The
available potassium content fluctuated more but was generally increased as a
result of grading. The average increase was h6 pounds per acre.

There may be several explanations for these phenomena: (l) The
mechanical breaking of the clay mineral tends to expose the nutrient material
and make it temporarily more available. (2) Wetting and drying affects the
availability of potassium especially. Thus over a period of time the availa-
bility of potassium would be expected to increase even though no grading was
involved. (3) Sulphur has the tendency to make phosphorus more available.
Perhaps spreading the sulphur around would tend to accomplish this. Spreading
the sulphur should tend to lower the pH or make the reaction more acid but
there is also much calcium and magnesium present that is being spread as a
result of grading which would raise the pH. This study requires a follow-up
test to determine if the increased availability is only temporary.

The growth of forage plants on graded areas is probably the best
means of measuring the effect of grading. In observing the yields obtained
from undisturbed ridges, itrike-off ridges and level areas, it can be seen
that grading does not hinder vegetative growth. See Table 7. The yield of
alfalfa hay from a level area in 195° was 6 tons per acre. In that par-
ticular area the undisturbed mined land yielded 3 tons per acre. As yet an
insufficient number of experiments have been setup to thoroughly study the
yields that might be obtained from all three degrees of physical conditions
of the resulting strip-mine area.

From the studies made on fcrage growth it seems obvious that
grading does not hinder the growth of forage, but rather it has several bene-
ficial effects. Less seed is required per acre, thicker stands are obtained,

less weeds are prevalent, and the excess forage material can be more easily

-10-

harvested where grading has been done. Kohnke (l) reports that grading per-
mits the soil formed from the raw soil materials to stay in place* Others
report that where no grading has been done there is just enough erosion
taking place to prevent the crowding out of the legumes due to the grasses
becoming sod-bound* This phase of study requires much more time and research
before conclusions can be drawn.

Microbiological Studies:

According to Waksman (3) the microscopic plant world is represented
in the soil by bacteria, fungi* and algae* Microorganisms are by far the
greatest contributors as biological agents of weathering thus participating
In soil formation* Three distinct biological processes or functions of micro-
organisms in the soil are: (1) The decomposition of organic matter, (2) the
nitrification or accumulation of nitrates In the soil as a result of the
decomposition of organic matter, and (3) nitrogen fixation by symbiotic and
non8ymbiotlc bacteria*

Legumes seeded on mined lands are inoculated with specific cultures
of bacteria and in a symbiotic relationship are able to fix atmospheric
nitrogen and supply it to plants in the form of nitrogenous nutrients*
Azotobacter are capable of fixing nitrogen nonsymbiotlcally* Bacteria and
fungi are essential in the decomposition of organic matter*

Recently mined soils are presumably rery low or void of micro-
organisms* A study has been initiated to determine in part the nature and
extent of the microflora, etc*

A study has been initiated to determine in part the nature of the
microflora of the strip-mined soils under various stages of vegetation*
Mr* Barrel Lynch, Tirst Assistant in Soil Biology, Is conducting this in-
vestigation, fable 3 lists the numbers of fungi and azotobacter found*

(

-11-

Table 3. — *b© Humber of Fungi and Asotobacter Found In
Strip-Mine Soils Under Different Types of Vegetation

Fungi number

Nature of mined land

Location

per gram of soil

Azotobacter

Bare spoils, new

Morgan

10,000

♦*/

Bare spoils, old

Fidelity

No information

-»/

Alfalfa vegetation

Fidelity

Ho information

Alfalfa vegetation

Midwest Radiant

Ho information

Alfalfa vegetation

Morgan

80,000

Alfalfa vegetation

Truax-Fiatt

40,000

Hone

Broaegrass vegetation

Midwest Radiant

Ho information

■*-*■

Broaegrass vegetation

Morgan

80,000

Hone

Broaegrass vegetation

Truax-Fiatt

Ho Information

Hone

Locust tree cover

Fidelity

Ho Information

Roadside soil

Fulton county

70,000

♦

TTrbana area soil

Champaign county

250,000

Hone

— ' ♦ abundant.

*» *♦ very abundant*

-12-

The ■ trip-mined soils covered with bromegrass and alfalfa averaged
around 60,000 fungi per gram of soil and the bare areas averaged about 10,000
fungi per gram of soil* A road-side soil under bluegrass sod in Fulton
county averaged approximately 70,000 fungi per gram while a highly fertile
soil near Urbana, Illinois, averaged about 250,000 fungi per gram* The fairly
large number of fungi present under the alfalfa and bromegrass cover shows
that with vegetation there is a large increase in numbers of fungi* This
would seem to indicate that the soil-forming processes are thus speeded up
with an increase in the active organic matter content*

The nitrogen content of these soils, one of the essential constituents
of organic matter, is probably further enhanced by the presence of azotobacter
species both in the bare spoils and in the areas seeded to alfalfa and brome-
grass* It is interesting to note that the bare areas and the alfalfa cover
apparently are more conducive to azotobacter growth than was the grass cover*
The nature of the microflora as influenced by the type of plant may be a
factor affecting azotobacter development. Much further quantitative work
however needs to be done concerning the numbers and response of fungi,
azotobacter, and other bacteria to crop growth and soil conditions*
FORAGE CROP SPECIES ADAPTATION STUDIES:

The number of experimental plots that have been established is now
2,336» Of this number 999 are located in southern Illinois, 894 in western
Illinois, and 443 iu the northern Illinois areas. Seventy-one different
species and varieties of forage and cultivated crop plants have been used to
seed these plots* Table 4 lists the species that have been seeded*

Species Adaptation:

Satisfactory results have been obtained with the following legumes:
Alfalfa, sweet clover, red clover, birdsfoot trefoil, lespedeza, alslke,

-13-

Table 4.-~Forage Species Seeded

Grasses

Common Name

Botanical Uame

Kentucky bluegrass
Canada bluegrass
Big bluegrass
Canby "bluegrass
Hedtop

Timothy

Reed canary grass

Orchard grass

Bromegrass

Mountain "Drome

Meadow fescue
Alta fescue
Chewings fescue
Creeping fescue

Ryegrass

Bermuda grass
Dallas grass
Crested wheatgrass
Slender wheatgrass
Western wheatgrass

Blue grama
Side-oat grama
Big blue stem
Little bluestem
Buffalo grass

Indian grass
Tall oatgrass
Canadian wild rye
Mi chael ' s gras s
Rhodes grass

Switch grass
Meadow foxtail
Millets
Sudan
Sweet sudan

Love grass

"M" pasture mix

Fields pasture mix

Poa pratensis
Poa compressa
Poa ampla
Poa canbyi
Agrostis alba

Phi em pratense
Phragmites communis
Dactyl is glomerata
Bromus inerinis leyss
Bronms marginatus

Festuca pratensis

Festuca pratensis var. alta

Festuca rabra

Festuca rubra var. creeping

Lolium perenne

Cynodon dactylum
Paspalum no ta turn
Agropyron cristatum
Agropyron tenerium
Agropyron smithii

Bouteloua gracilis
Bouteloua curtipendula
Andropogon furcatus
Andropogon scoparius
Buchlae dactyloides

Sorghastrum nutans
Arrhenatherura elatius
ELymus canadensis

Chloris gayana

Panicum virgatum
Alcopecuris eliator
Setaria sp.
Sorghum halapenso
(Cross) Sorghum halapense
x S. vulgare

Eragrostis curvula

Calamagrostis epigea

Common Name

Wheat

Oats

Rye

Corn

Soybeans

Japanese rose

-1^~
Table 4. — (cont'd) - Forage Species Seeded

Cultivated Crops

Botanical Name

Tri ti cum aestivuin
Avena satlva
Secale cereale
Zea mays
Glycine max.

Legumes

Alfalfa

Sweet clover - yellow
Sweet clover - white
Hubam clover
Spanish sweet clover

Evergreen sweet clover
Lespedeza - common
Lespedeza - Korean
Lespedeza - Kobe
Lespedeza - Sericea

Lespedeza - Bieolor
Mammoth clover

Alsike clover
Crimson clover
Subterranean clover

White Dutch clover
Ladino clover
Hop clover
Alyce clover
Austrian winter pea

Birdsfoot trefoil
Big broadleaf trefoil
Yellow trefoil
Kudzu
Lupines

Lappacea

Red clover, Kenland

Red clover, Cumberland

Red clover, Midland

Sanfoln

Crown vetch
Button clover
Persian clover
Wagner pea
Single tary pea

Rosa multi flora

Medicago sativa
Melilotus officinaluB
Melilotus alba
Melilotus annula
Melilotus suaveolus

Melilotus
Lespedeza striata
Lespedeza stlpulacea
Lespedeza striata var»
Lespedeza sericea

Lespedeza tricolor

Tri folium pra tense var.

perenne,
Tri folium hybridum
Tri folium incarnatum
Tri folium subterraneum

Trifolium repens
Trifolium repens var. latum
Tri folium procumbens
Trifolium alyce
Pi sum satlva var,

Lotus corniculatus
Lotus uligln08us
Medicago lupullna
Pueraria chunbergiana
Luplnus sp.

Trifolium lappaceaum
Trifolium pra tense var,
Trifolium pra tense var,
Trifolium pratense var*
Onobrychis vicioefolia

Vicia sp,

Medicago oebicularls
Trifolium reseysinatum
Lathyrus silvestris wagneri

Hairy vetch

Vicia villosa

-15-

Ladino, yellow trefoil, and Kudzu. Orchard grass, the tall fescues, bromegrass,
redtop, timothy, bluegrass, and ryegrass have "been the grasses that are "best
adapted. Heed canary grass, western wheatgrass, side-oat grass, love grass,
Canadian wild rye, tall oatgrass, the native grasses, such as big and little
bluestem, Indian grass, and switch grass have been established with varying
success. The native grasses are very slow to become established*

As reported in a previous report, alfalfa plants growing on strip-
mined land have been observed to be heavy producers of seed clusters* Under
Illinois climatic conditions normally very little alfalfa seed is produced.
An attempt was made to gather information concerning seed yield. Alfalfa was
cut for seed production on August 1, 1950 » from three different locations.
The yields obtained are listed in Table 5* The alfalfa had not been cut or
grazed previously but represented the total growth for the season. The yields
obtained are phenomenal. However, for the data to be more reliable more
samples should be taken. This will be done in 1951*

If level areas are available for seed production of alfalfa, serious
consideration should be given to growing and harvesting the crop. Spraying
to kill harmful insects is advocated in the seed harvesting program.

Alfalfa varieties of southern origin are being tested on strip-mine
soils for winter-hardiness, longevity, and yield. The following varieties
were seeded on six different areas: (l) New Mexico Common, Roswell, Hew
Mexico, (2) lew Mexico Common, Hatch, Hew Mexico, (3) India, (4) Advance,
and (5) Chilean all from Advance, Arizona. These varieties are being tested
against Kansas Common strain and certified Buffalo alfalfa*

Birdsfoot trefoil has continued to show up very well when seeded on
strip-mined lands. This specie gives best results when seeded as the only
legume plus one or two grasses. In its early stages of growth it does not

-16-

Table 5. — Yields of Alfalfa Seed Prom Strip-Mined Lands

in Western Illinois, 1950

Yield of cleaned seed

replications

1
2

3
4

Average

Germination
percentage

Spoils

372
546
150
504

S trike-off top - a
lb./A

174
126
156
132

39C5

146.5

.Level
1dT7a~

330
342
360

336
342

37 (51 + 36)

84 (39 + 45) 92 (62 + 30)

& Seed crop was too mature and had started to shatter when
harvested.

Table 6.— Yields of Eye on Level Area in Western Illinois - 1950

Trnax-Traer Coal Co., Fiatt Mine

Plot

No.

1
2

3
4

30
30

Fertilizer treatment per acre
Fall Spring

P20c K 2 N P2O5 K?0

vr. — rcr™ifc n>: — tbt — itr

Yield per acre
Replications

I II Average
bUo

bu ." "Tni.

6.73 4.81 5-77

26.19 41.58 33.88

34.13 15.38 24.75

12.74 15.14 13.94

3.61 3.61

-17-

compete well with other legumes in a mixture. Seed of Italian origin is
readily available. A New York selection, [Empire , is also available and is
well adapted to strip-mine lands. Approximately 6 to 8 pounds of seed per
acre have given satisfactory stands. Inoculation with the Lotus strain of
inoculant is necessary for satisfactory results.

Sweet clover, alfalfa, orchard grass, redtop, and timothy were the
species most easily established when seeded into preestablished vegetation
such as sweet clover or weedy areas.

Establishment of Mixtures:

Better pastures usually result where a mixture of grasses and
legumes is seeded than when a single specie is seeded. Based on plot results
the most satisfactory stands of desired species have been obtained by seeding
the mixture In the spring of the year on newly mined areas.

Some mixtures that have been successful are:

(1)

(2)

(3)

Total

per acre

lb.

1&.

lb.

Alfalfa
Lespedeza
Sweet clover
Ladino

Orchard grass
Tall fescues
Timothy

3
2

Alfalfa
Eed clover
Alslke
Ladino

3
2

Bromegrass
Orchard grass

Alfalfa

Lespedeza
Ladino

Orchard grass
Alta fescue

3
3

Use of Grain and Seed Crops:

Grain crops that have been seeded include wheat, rye, oats, Sudan
grass, corn, and soybeans. Wheat, rye, and Sudan grass have generally given
good results. The yields of rye obtained and the fertilizers applied on a

-18-

- A'

SSI;

Alfalfa and bromegrass plants growing on mined land in !*ulton
county* Truax-Traer Coal Company. These two species are well
adapted to mined lands and are valuable forages for livestock
production in central and northern Illinois. (?ig» 3)

-19-

level area in western Illinois are listed in Table 6* In the past on similar
plots nitrogen alone has given the highest yield* On this area it appears
that the phosphorus and potassium applied gave an increase in yield over and
above the nitrogen needed* According to soil tests taken in this area the
available phosphorus and potassium present in the soil was adequate without an
additional application. It should be stressed, however, that without nitrogen
added the phosphorus and potassium resulted in a very small yield*

A level area of approximately 14 acres was seeded to wheat by one of
the coal companies* This wheat averaged 25 bushels per acre; 357 bushels of
wheat were harvested from the area* One-hundred and fifty pounds of 3-12-12
were applied per acre* The nitrogen content of this soil material was high,
since the soil in this area was a calcareous peaty material*

Excellent growth of Sudan, fertilized with a high nitrogen carrying
material, was observed on another extensively leveled area in western Illinois*

Adaptation of Multiflora Hose and Lespedeza Blcolor:

Rosa multiflora has been planted on strip-mined lands and its growth
and survival observed. Excellent survival and growth were obtained in western
Illinois* After 2 years growth the branches measured from 6 to 8 feet in
length. Best results were obtained when a manure mulch and a small amount of
ammonium nitrate was applied at planting time* The plants were planted in two
rows about 18 inches apart with 12 to 18 inch spacing of plants within the row*

If the rose will make satisfactory growth and survival, it will be
practical to use it for extensive fence building on strip-mined lands* Planting
it on the top of ridges that have been knocked off appears to be practical.
Interior fencing can be built by this means* The rose must be protected from
livestock for some time after planting because livestock will eat off the tips
of the branches and retard the growth* This rose also makes excellent wild
life cover.

-20-

Lespedeza bicolor, a shrubby type of plant used for wild life
(quail) food, was first seeded on the strip-mine land in 1948. The seed was
obtained from the Natural History Department, Wildlife Division, of Georgia*
The stand obtained was not tso good but many plants were established* Seed
was produced in 19^9 and 1950. This specie grows better in southern than in
western Illinois.

Collection of Naturally Introduced Species:

To obtain information about the nature of plants that can be found
growing on strip-mined land a plant collection was started in 1950* This
collection did not include trees, but was predominantly of herbaceous plants.
A total of 158 different plant species was collected, mounted, and identified.
Fifty- three of these had been seeded and were considered to be artificially
Introduced, while the remainder, 105 species, were considered as being naturally
introduced species. Thirty- four different plant families were represented
by these species. The families represented most often were the Composite
family with 19 species, the Grass family with Ik naturally introduced and 32
artificially introduced species, the Pea family with 5 naturally introduced
and 21 artificially introduced species, and the Buckwheat family with 5
species.

The list is not complete but does represent the plants seen most
often and are rather commonly found on strip-mined lands. The collection will
be continued in 1951«
DETERMINATION OP FORAGE YIELDS AND QUALITY:

Measurement of Forage Yields:

On seeded areas that have become satisfactorily established, hay
yields have been obtained. This was done by cutting either two or four-
foot square areas of forage. The forage was dried, weighed, and converted to

-21-

jlelds expressed as pounds and tons per acre. Table 7 gives the hay yields
of forage produced on strip-mined lands in 1950 •

Alfalfa yields were taken at seven different locations with several
replications at each location. The average yield obtained was 7,067 pounds
or 3«53 tons per acre. The highest yield was obtained in Knox county on a
level area. An acre, cut three times, yielded 186 bales or 12,620 pounds or
6.3 tons of hay per acre. The lowest yield of alfalfa was 2.8 tons of hay per
acre.

Birdsfoot trefoil was cut at five different locations. The average
yield obtained was 6,811 pounds or 3«^ tons of hay per acre. Three cuttings
per season were made. Legume mixtures were cut at seven different locations.
The average yield, three cuttings per season, was 4,702 pounds or 2.35 tons
per acre. The yield of lespedeza cut at nine different locations averaged
3,350 pounds or 1.68 tons of hay per acre. The differences in yields from
undisturbed mined areas (A), strike-off ridges (B), and leveled areas (C),
are listed. It should be pointed out that the hay yields on strike-off
ridges and leveled areas (B and C) were as good or better than yields from
undisturbed mined areas (A).

Hay yield data will be helpful in determining the carrying capacity
of strip-mined pastures. By comparing these yields with actual grazing
conditions more information concerning carrying capacity will be obtained.

Chemical Composition of Forage Species:

The chemical composition of forage growing on strip-mined land in
19^8 and 19^9 is presented in Tables 8 and 9. Samples of the various forages
were collected from the several spoil types at different locations and at
various times of the year. Most species were sampled at the bloom stage of
growth.

-22-

Table 7.~~Hay Yields of Forage Produced on Spoil Bank PlotB, 1950

Forage specie

Number of
samples

Location

Property

Alfalfa
plus grasses
(3 cuttings)

1 acre

Average yield

"Birdsfoot trefoil
plus grasses
(3 cuttings)

Average yield

Lad 1 no
(3 cuttings)

Lespedeza
(1 cutting)

Average yield

Legume mixtures
(3 cuttings)

Average yield

8
6
4
4
6
186 bales

8
8
2

3
4

2
14
2
2
2
2
6

3
3

5
5
4

3
7

Delta

Pyramid

Midwest Radiant

Morgan

Cuba

Midland Electric

Delta

Pyramid

Midwest Radiant

Morgan

Cuba

Morgan

County

Type of

plots^/ Yield per acre

Williamson

Perry

St. Clair

Fulton

Knox

Williamson
Perry
St. Clair
Fulton
Fulton

Fulton

A
A
B
A
A
A
C

A
A

B
A
A

Sahara

Saline

Delta

Williamson

T-T Elkville

Jackson

T-T Elkville

Jackson

T-T Elkville

Jackson

Fidelity

Perry

Pyramid

Perry

Midwest Radiant

St. Clair

Morgan

Fulton

Delta

Williamson

Pyramid

Perry

Southwestern

(old)

Randolph

Southwestern

(new)

Randolph

Morgan

Fulton

B. Somers (Lot 1)

Fulton

T-T Fiatt

Fulton

lb. tone

5
6
6

5
6

*T"V*"V

489

969
422
520
00?
12 620
7 067

5
7
6

566

386

8 688

668
746
811

3.2
2.8

3.5
3.2
2.8
3.0

6.3
3.53

3.3
2.7
4.2
2.8
3.9
3.4

5 968 3.0

3 942

2.0

2 664

1.3

3 780

1.9

4 524

2.3

3 708

1.9

3 504

1.8

2 010

1.0

4 672

2.3

1 350

3 350

1.68

4 680

2.3

4 807

2.4

4 462

2.2

4 057

2.0

5 874

2.9

3 876

2.0

5 160

2.6

4 702

2.35

£/

A - undisturbed spoil banks. B - strike-off tops. C - level or partially level.

~2>

Table 8 •—Chemical Composition of Forage Crops Grown

on Strip-Mined Land in 1948

Number of

Crop samples

Protein

pet.

£Ct.

pet.

pot.

pet.

££t.

legumes:

Alfalfa

2.99

18.7

.21

1.56

1.8?

.49

.0066

Yellow trefoil

2.85

17.8

.21

1.70

2.05

.47

....

Birdefoot trefoil

2.75

17.2

.20

1.76

1.81

.71

.0111

Birdsfoot trefoil (N.Y.)

2.29

14.3

.17

1.58

1.87

.61

.0188

Red clover

2.67

16.7

.18

1.48

1.68

.49

.008?

Mammoth red clover

3.50

21.9

.19

2.10

1.54

.49

.....

Lad 1 no

2.85

17.8

.23

1.46

1.42

.49

.....

Alsike

2.90

18.1

.24

1.97

1.55

.50

.0144

White Dutch clover

3.10

19.2

.24

.97

1.75

•55

.....

Sweet clovexv 1st year

June- Augus t

3.54

22.1

.22

1.31

1.84

.57

.0089

Sep t ember-November

3.31

20.7

.23

1.15

1.41

.54

.0092

May- June, 2nd year

2.88

18.0

.23

1.44

1.56

.41

.0075

Hubam

2.85

17.8

.22

1.70

2.05

.47

.....

Lespedeza, Korean

2.11

13.2

.24

1.18

1.10

• 33

.0085

Lespedeza, Kobe

1.79

U.3

.20

1.22

1.07

.32

.0100

Lespedeza, Sericea

2.21

13.8

.18

....

I.09

.33

.0062

Crimson clover

2.73

17.1

.16

1.52

2.14

.36

. . . • •

Button closer

2.16

13.5

.22

1.05

1.24

.56

.0175

Lappacea clover

1.42

8.9

.18

.85

1.82

.60

.0360

Austrian winter pea

3.88

24.3

•25

2.32

1.30

•30

.0010

Grasses:

Kentucky bluegrass

1.49

9.3

.23

.78

.36

.23

.0093

1.19

Br ome grace

2.00

12.5

,28

2.25

.51

• 56

.0154

1.89

Orchard grass

1.96

12.3

.29

2.90

.49

.38

.0244

2.15

Tall fescues

1.78

11.1

.31

. •• .

.51

.31

.0200

2.32

Timothy

1.84

11.5

.28

2.27

.38

.24

.0092

1.00

Red top

1.46

9.1

.37

1.68

.44

.28

.0160

2.68

Ryegrass

1.88

11.7

.25

....

.56

.26

.0125

2.51

Canadian wild rye

1.78

11.1

.29

....

.36

.23

• a • . .

....

Western wheat grass

1.66

10.4

.27

....

.56

.27

.0130

4.02

Love grass

1.39

8.7

.15

...

.24

.12

.0100

1.77

Rhode 8 grass

1.51

9.4

.23

....

.51

.20

. . . • .

....

Tall oatgra68

1.38

8.6

.10

. » » •

.56

.44

.0215

2.93

Sweet Sudan

1.38

7.4

.19

• • • .

.55

.25

.0065

4.44

Michaels grass

1.84

11.5

.24

....

.36

.15

.0065

1.39

-24-

Table 9*~ Chemical Composition of Forage Crops Grown

on Strip-Mined Land in 1949

Number of

■ ■ * ■'

Crop

samples

Protein

pet.

net.

pet.

Legumes:

Alfalfa

2.80

17.5

.21

1.71

1.35

.38

Yellow trefoil

3.10

19.4

.26

2.22

1.2.6

.60

Birdsfoot trefoil

2.53

15.8

.22

1.75

1.36

.53

Birdsfoot trefoil (K,

,y.) 2

2.20

13.8

.23

1.77

1.28

.54

Red clover

2.58

16.]

.18

1.93

1.28

.43

Mammoth red clover

2.11

13.2

.17

1.27

1.26

.57

Ladino

3.27

20.4

.24

2.18

1.46

.57

Alsike

2.91

18.2

.23

2.23

1.05

.58

Sweet clover, 1st year

July-August

3.39

21.2

.22

1.94

1.41

.59

Sept ember- November

2.78

17.4

.20

1.31

1.00

.50

May- June, 2nd year

3.01

18.8

.22

1.89

1.20

.57

Hubam

3.17

19.8

.35

1.69

1.30

.53

Lespedeza, Korean

2.09

13.1

.18

.89

.84

.28

Lespedeza, Kobe

1.90

11.9

.13

.70

.82

.24

Lespedeza, Sericeti

1.72

10.8

.15

.79

.67

.23

Kudzu leaves

2.24

14.0

.42

2.60

.60

.44

Grasses: (Hay stage)

Kentucky bluegrass

1.76

11.0

.24

1.84

.37

.25

Bromegrass

1.40

8.8

.15

2.35

.40

.22

Orchard grass

1.51

9.^

.25

2.44

.43

.29

Alta fescue

1.43

8.9

.19

1.94

.40

.33

Timothy

1.57

9.3

.20

2.09

.36

.21

Redtop

1.15

7.2

.17

1.34

.44

.25

Tall oatgrass

1.05

6.6

.21

2.13

.25

.24

Little bluestem

.60

3.8

.14

.80

• 30

.13

Big bluestem

.60

3.8

.15

.62

.30

.13

Switch grass

.82

5.1

.12

•55

.70

.34

-25-

In studying the chemical composition of plants, it is well to keep
in mind the influencing factors that may cause variations. Composition may
vary with the species, stage of growth, climatic conditions, productivity and
mineral content of the soil. Internal or external injuries by insects,
diseases, rodents, animals or weather may also affect the composition of vege-
tation.

Legumes are relatively high in protein and calcium and for this
reason are highly valuable as a feed. Grasses are lower in protein and certain
minerals, but are high in carbohydrates supplying the balance necessary for a
good ration.

Table 10 gives the comparison of the chemical composition of several
forage species grown on strip-mined land in 19^8 and in 19^9 with the forage
grown on Illinois farms. The nitrogen and protein content of the strip-mine
forage for both years is higher than that grown on Illinois farms for alfalfa,
red clover, first year sweet clover, lespedeia, Kentucky bluegrass, and orchard
grass. The nitrogen and protein content of the Ladino grown on strip-mine
lands had been markedly lower than that grown on Illinois farciE. It has been
difficult to get good stands of Ladino growing on the strip-mine lands. The
growth in 1950 appeared better than in previous years.

With regard to phosphorus the chemical composition of strip-mine
forage has been very high. The tests of strip-mine soil material show that
the available phosphorus content is very high so it is expected that this
element would be high in the forage. The potassium, calcium, and magnesium
content of the strip-mine forages compare very favorably with that grown on
Illinois farms,

A study to determine the chemical composition of several species

during different months of the year was started in 19^9, The species studied

-26-

Table 10.-~ Comparison of the Chemical Composition of Several Forage
Species Grown on Strip-Mined Land in 1948 and 1949
With That Grown on Illinois Farm

Number of

Crop

samples

Protein

pet.

Alfalfa

1946

2.99

18.7

.21

1.56

1.87

.49

.0066

B-518&/

2.80

17.5

.21

1.71

1.35

• 38

.0022

2,75

17.2

.18

1.25

1.75

.49

.0100

Red clover

1948

2,67

16.7

.18

1.48

1.68

.49

.0087

1949 ,
B-5182J

2.58

16.1

.18

1.93

1.28

.43

.....

2.37

14.8

.16

1.30

1.47

.46

.0500

Lad i no

1948

2.85

17.8

.23

1.46

1.42

.49

.....

1949 1
B-518^

3.27

20.4

.24

2.18

1.46

.57

.0016

3*56

22.2

.31

2.24

1.61

.48

.OO55

Birdsfoot trefoil

1948

2.75

17.2

.20

1.76

1.81

.71

.0111

1949 .
B-518^

2.53

15.8

.22

1.75

1.16

.53

.0040

2.75

17.2

.20

1.50

1.22

•31

.....

Sweet clover, 1st

year

1948 (September-November)

3.31

20.7

.23

1.15

1.41

.54

.0092

1949 (September-November)

3*09

19.3

.21

I.63

1.31

*55

.0040

B- 51 QSJ (October-

•November)

2.07

12.9

.11

.80

1.35

.62

.1000

Sweet clover, 2nd

year

1948 (May- June)

2.88

18.0

.23

1.44

1.56

.41

.0075

1949 (May-June)

3.01

18.8

• 22

1.89

1.20

.57

.....

B-518S/ (April-May)

3.45

21.6

•30

1.60

1.64

.57

.....

Lespedeza

1948

2.11

13.2

.24

1.18

1.10

.33

.0085

1949 7
B-5182/

2.09

13a

.18

.89

.84

.28

.....

2.02

12.5

.15

.95

.85

.29

.0700

Kentucky bluegrast

1948

1.49

9.3

.23

.78

.36

.23

.0093

1949 ,
B-518S/

1.76

11.0

.24

1.84

.37

.25

.0111

1.47

9.2

.19

1.64

.31

.20

.0950

Bromegra88

1948

2.00

12.5

.28

2.25

.51

.56

.0154

1949 7
B-518&/

1.40

8.8

.15

2.35

.40

.22

.0096

1.49

9.3

.17

2.21

.40

.15

.1200

Orchard grass

1948

1.96

12.3

.29

2.90

.49

.38

.0244

1949 ,
B-518^

1.51

9.4

.25

2.44

.43

.29

.0182

.97

6.0

.18

1.90

.27

.21

.2800

Tall fescues

1948

1.78

ll.l

•31

....

.51

.31

.0200

1949 /

1.43

8.9

.19

1.94

.40

.33

.0103

1.45

9.1

.24

1.74

.35

.22

.0047

& Snider, H. J. "Chemical Composition of Hay & Forage Crops". Illinois Agricultural
Experiment Station Bulletin 518. 1946.

-27-

were alfalfa, Ladino clover, orchard grass, bromegrass, and Alta fescue.
The results obtained and a comparison, where possible, with the forage grown
on Illinois farm soils are presented in Tables 11, 12, and 13*

In alfalfa, the nitrogen and protein content was lowest during the
months of July and August and highest during the fall months* The phosphorus
content of the alfalfa on strip-mine lands was universally as high or higher
than the alfalfa grown on Illinois farms. In general the chemical composition
of the alfalfa grown on strip-mine lands compared very favorably with that
grown in other areas of Illinois*

A comparison of the composition of Ladino clover is given in Table
12. The nitrogen and protein content is lowest during the month of July.
In studying Table 12 it is observed that the nutrient content of the several
elements is quite high. The top growth of Ladino clover is largely leaves
with the stems making up a small percentage of total growth. The composition
of alfalfa leaves listed in the table shows that the nutrient level of leafy
alfalfa is also very high. Both of these species make excellent feed, which
is emphasized by the data listed in Tables 11 and 12*

Table 13 lists the chemical composition of three grass species
growing on strip-mined lands at six different times of the year during 19^9»
Orchard grass and Alta fescue are earlier maturing species than bromegrass.
This accounts in part for the fact that the bromegrass is higher in protein
content than the other two grasses. These grasses were growing in legumes
which is their principal source of nitrogen. From this data it appears that
the nitrogen requirement of the grasses is met by the legumes.

Composition of Tops and Boots of Six Legume Species:

A number of plants were dug during the 19^9 season and the tops and
roots were analysed separately. The composition of the tops and roots of

-28-

Table 11.— Chemical Composition of Alfalfa During

Seven Months of the Year

Location

Year

Month

Number of
samples

Protein

Ca Mg Mn

pet.

p_ct.

pet.

PCt.

pet.

£Ct.

Strip Mine
Strip Mine /
Univ. of 111.^

1948

1949
1948

Mar

May
May

3-11

3-37
2.56

19.4
19.8
16.0

.19
.22

.13

1.62
1.88
1.34

2.91

1.85
2.00

.54
.58
.49

.0090

.0028
.0065

Strip Mine
Strip Mine j
Univ. of 111.^

19*48
1949
1948

June
June
June

3
7
3

3.25
2.59
3.06

20.3
16.2
19.1

.23
.19
.14

1.35
1.67
1.59

2.07
1.27
1.33

.45
.38
.47

.0066
.0030
.0070

Strip Mine
Strip Mine ,
Univ. of Ill.S/

1948

1949
1948

July
July
July

6
6
2

2.97
2.70
3.02

18.6
16.9
18.9

.20

.19
.20

1.53
1.86
1.44

1.74
1.10
1.78

.59
.39
.52

.0064
.0023
.....

Strip Mine
Strip Mine /
Univ. of Ill.fi/

19^8

1949
1948

August

August
August

5
2

2.65
3.4o

3.35

16.6
21.3

20.9

.19
.30
.21

1.46
2.05
2.3 7

1.73
1.21

1.31

.49
.36
.40

.0068
.0014
♦ 0070

Strip Mine
Strip Mine /
Univ. of Ill.fi/

1948
1949
1948

September
September
September

3.48

3.39
2.81

21.8
21.2
17.6

.28

.25

.20

1.78

1.99
.81

1.77
1.26
1.46

•39
.31
.56

.0025
.0021
. . . » •

Strip Mine
Strip Mine /
Univ. of 111. 3 '

1948
1949
1948

October
October
October

3
5

3-30
3.99
....

20.6
24.9
••••

.22

.30

...

1.81

2.57
....

I.67
1.18
. . * .

.41

• 35

. • »

.0098

.0015

Strip Mine
Strip Mine /
Univ. of 111.-'

1948
1949
1948

November

November
November

U
3

. . » •

3.62
2.83

...»

22.6
17.7

...

.24

.17

. . « .

2.01

1.35

. . .a
1.30

1.24

...

.37
.40

. . » • .

.0030
.0249

Strip Mine

1948

Average

2.99

18.7

.21

1.56

1.87

.49

.0066

Strip Mine

1949

Average

2.80

17.5

.21

1.71

1.35

.38

.0022

^518^

1948

Average

2.75

17.2

.18

1.25

1.75

.49

.0100

Snider, H. J. Unpublished data.

Snider, F. J. "Chemical Composition of Hay & Forage Crops". Illinois Agricultural
Bxperiwnt Station Bulletin 518. 1946.

-29-

Table 12.~-Chemlcal Composition of Lad J no Clover
and Alfalfa Leaves During Several Manths of the Year

Number

Location

Year

Month

samples

N Protein

pet.

£Ct.

pet

Strip Mine
Strip Mine /
Univ. of 111 A

19^
1949
1948

May
May
May

• •
4
2

....

3.69
4.44

....
23.1
27.8

...
.27
Ol

. . • •

2.34
2.09

....

1.82
1.68

...
.68

.47

Strip Mine
Strip Mine /
Univ. of 111*2/

1948
1949
19^*6

June
June
June

. .
4
2

3.03
3.56

• • • •

18.9
22.3

...
.23
.27

2.05
1.95

....
1.60

1.45

• . .

.60

.45

Strip Mine
Strip Mine /
Univ. of 111.*'

1948
19^9
1948

July
July
July

3
2

2.79

2.93
3.44

17.4
18.3
21.5

.25

.24

.26

1.60
2.17
1.90

1.74
1.47
1.56

.59
.54
.57

Strip Mine
Strip Mine /
Univ. of 111.*'

1948

19^9
1948

August
August
August

4
1
2

2.80
3.68
3.17

17.5

23.O

19.8

.21

.31
.24

1.29
2.28
1.88

1.57

.95
1.41

.56
.50
.51

Strip Mine
Strip Mine /
Univ. of 111.*'

1948
1949
1946

September
September
September

3
2

2.U8
3.34
3.^7

15.5
20.9
22.9

.22
.24
.27

1.12
2.22
1.93

1.30
I.07
1.55

.56
.52
.50

Strip Mine
Strip Mine /
Univ. of 111.*'

1948

19^9
1948

October
October
October

3
1

3.21

3.95
3.72

20.1

24.7
23.2

.24
.24
.23

1.83
2.51
2.10

1.53
1.22

1.40

.48
.47
.48

Strip Mine

1948

Average

2.85

17.8

.23

1.46

1.42

.49

Strip Mine

1949

Average

3.27

20.4

.24

2.38

1.46

.57

Univ. of 111^/

1946-48

Average

3.56

22.2

.31

2.24

1.61

.46

Alfalfa

, leaveB -

1948^

June

4.35

27.2

.33

1.94

2.52

.48

July

4.46

28.0

.29

2.51

1.82

.33

August

3.90

24.4

.20

1.94

1.88

.51

November

3.84

24.0

.23

1.83

2.00

.49

Average

leaf

570 lb/A

4.10

25.6

.26

1.99

2.09

.45

Average

stem

020

lb/A

2.00

12.5

.18

2.15

.83

.31

Snider, H. J. Unpublished data.

-30-

Table 13.— 'Chemical Compo8ition of Three Grass Species Growing
on Strip-Mined Lands at Six Different Tines of the Tear, 1949

Month and crop

Number of
samples

Protein

pet.

Ma7 (larly)
Bromegrass
Orchard grass
Alt a fescue

3
3

2.60
2.19
1.92

I6.3
13.7
12.0

.21

.25
.22

2.75
2.92

2.57

.45
.23
.27

.29
.24

.36

.0135
.0114

.0113

2.40
1.62
2.38

May (Late)

Bromegrass
Orchard grass

Alt a fescue

2
1

... .
1.52

1.48

9.5
9.3

...
.26

.17

. . ft .

2.40
1.85

. ..
.30
.30

...
.25
.35

.....

.0073
.0070

2.09

1.5*

June

Sronegrass
Orchard grass
Alta fescue

4
4
3

1.40
1.44

1.17

8.8
9.0

7.3

.15
.23
• 21

2.36
2.32
2.04

.40
.56
.36

.21

.33
.28

.0096
.0203

.0117

1.46
2*47
3.06

July

Bromegrass
Orchard grass
Alta fescue

3
4

1.92
1.98
1.91

12.0
12.4
U.9

.24
.28
•28

2.36
2.71
1.91

.47
.70
.66

• 26

.45
.52

.0112
.0117
.0127

2.07
2.42
3.01

September
Bromegrass
Orchard grass
Alta fescue

2.28
1.64
2.04

14.3
10O
12.8

• 26

.30
.22

2.04
2.02
2.28

.71
.63
.38

.39
.44

.3*

.0205
.0200
.0119

3.03
3.65
2.61

October
Bronegrass
Orchard grass
Alta fescue

3
4

1.66

2.20
1.98

10.4
13.8
12.4

.18

.35
.21

1.60
2.37
2.53

.99
.62

.58

.50
.38
.37

.0335
.0140

♦0124

4.15
3.32
2.91

-31-

)

i ■ »

Mi ■•• •
7

Two alfalfa and two sweet clover plants growing on strip-mine
land showing top and root growth. The two plants to the left
are alfalfa plants. The long taproot of the left plant was
over k feet long, while the other root shows more branching,
The sweet clover plants to the right show a less extensive
root system. However, some sweet clover plants have "been dtig
with taproots also over k feet long. (Fig. ^)

-32-

slx legume species Is listed in Table Ik, The plants were in the full bloom
stage except for the first-year sweet clover which was dug in October. The
nitrogen content of the roots is generally lower than the tops except for the
first-year sweet clover. The calcium content of the roots is from 4 to 7
times lower than the calcium content of the tops.

Animal Gains as a Method of Measuring Yield and Quality:

This is the third year during which steers have grazed on strip-
mine pastures and their gains compared with gains made by steers that grazed
on undisturbed land in bluegrass. During the 19**# and 19^9 seasons the
University of Illinois, Animal Science Department, furnished the steers used
in the tests. In 1950 the steers used were owned by Mr. Byron Somers, Canton,
Illinois, Fulton county, on whose farm the tests were made.

Twenty head of good to high good steers were selected from a drove
of cattle which had been wintered on legume hay, corn silage, and some concen-
trate. On May 5 the steers were gate sorted into two lots. Ten steers were
grazed on strip-mined lands, while the same number were run on a bluegrass
pasture as a check or control group. Both pastures were the same as those
used in 19^8 and 19^9 in the Pulton county tests.

The steers were kept on the respective pastures until November 7,
a total of 186 days. After that date the two lots were run together on an
alfalfa, Ladino and bromegrass pasture and started on a light feed of corn*
On November 20, after they had been on feed for 13 days, 17 steers were
weighed individually. As will be noted in Table 15, 8 steers of Lot 1 and
9 steers of Lot 2 were individually weighed instead of 10 in each lot. When
experimental cattle are grazed with other cattle it is difficult to separate
and process the test steers, even though the steers were branded. Individual
weighing is also a problem particularly if the corral end scale are not

-33-

Table 14. — Comparison of the Chemical Composition
of the Top and Boot Material of Six Species, 1949

Number of

Part of

Tield ratio

Species

samples

plant

Protein

root to tops

pet.

£Ct.

pet.

Ect.

PjCt.

ESt«

Alfalfa

Tops
Boots

2.62
2.04

16.4
12.8

.19
.20

1.60
1.07

1.41
.3^

.42
.22

1:2.41

Sweet clover
1st year (Oct. )

Tops
Boots

2.23
3.^3

13.9
21.4

.19
.31

1.05
.90

.63

.10

.42
.28

1:0.97

Sweet clover

2nd year (Bloom)

Tops
Boots

2.41
1.39

15.1
8.7

.19
.19

1.70
1.88

1.11

.17

.54
.59

1:5.77

Bed clover

Tops
Boots

2.62
1.99

16.4
12.4

.15
.15

1.74
1.26

1.32
.25

.55
.52

No data

Alsike

Top 8
Boots

2.29
2.19

14.3
13-7

.13
.13

1.85
1.23

1.00
.19

.59
.75

No data

Blrdsfoot trefoil

Tops
Boots

2.59
2.63

16.2
16.4

.22

.26

1.30
1.14

1.58
.21

.68
.29

No data

Lad i no

Tops
Boots

2.96
2.30

18.5
14.4

.22
.24

1.95
1.32

1.55
.20

.66
.*3

No data

Table 15.— Individual Weights of Steers Pastured

in 1950

Lot 1 — Spoil bank pastures - Fulton county
Weight Weights' Gain on Arerage
Tattoo May 5 Hot* 20 pasture dally gain

fe JST^ — w* ur —

78 790 1 110 320 l.6l

850

1 150

300

1.51

810

1 200

390

1.96

850

1 200

350

1.76

810

• •• • •

• ••

.»•*

700

• • •

• • • •

930

1 130

200

1.01

830

1 110

280

1.41

850

1 170

320

1.61

790

1 120

J30

1.66

Are rage ■

821

1 149

311

1.56

Lot 2 — Undisturbed bluegrass pasture
Fulton county

79 860 1 110 250 1.26

81 800 1 030 230 1.16

83 870 1 140 270 I.36

85 820 1 040 220 1.11

87 740 940 200 1.01

89 850 1 110 260 1.31

91 790 990 200 1.01

93 760 ... ....

94 790 1 060 270 I.36
94 888 1 070 190 .95

Areraget 816 1 054 232 1.17

& Weights after 186 day* of pasture plus 13 daye
on feed (corn) and alfalfa, Ladino, brome field
pasture.

-35-

especially equipped. Two steers were acidentally let out at the same time
and were mixed with the herd again. It was not practical to resort and re-
inspect the whole herd to get the individual weights of the two steers.
These are the reasons why only 1? steers were weighed individually. The
results, in terms of animal gains, for the 199 day period were as follows:

Av. wt. Av. wt. Av. total Av. daily
May 5 Ho v. 20 gain gain

lb. lb. lb. lb.

Lot 1, test steers^ 2 / 838 1 149 311 I.56

Lot 2, control steers- 7 822 1 054 232 1.3 7

— ' Average Initial and final weights of 8 steers.

«* Average initial and final weights of 9 steers.

Table 15 gives the individtial weights of each steer on May 5 and
on November 20 and shows the difference in individual gains. For the 17 steers
on which individual weights were taken the total gain varied from a high of
390 pounds to a low of 190 pounds per head. A statistical analysis of the
results shows that the difference in gains made by the two lots is highly
significants The 19**8 and 19^9 results showed no significant difference in
the gains made by the two groups.

Lot weights of both groups of steers were obtained on August 14.
Lot 1 had gained an average of 151 pounds while Lot 2 had gained an average
of 1*»4 pounds per head. The average daily gains for the 101 days that they
had been on pasture were 1.50 and 1.44 pounds respectively. Unfortunately
neither lot of steers was weighed when it was removed from its experimental
pasture on November 7 and turned onto a field of alfalfa-Ladino, bromegrass
pasture where grain feeding was begun. However, all steers, except 3t were
weighed individually November 20, but these weights were in all probability
materially larger than those which would have been obtained 13 days earlier
before grain feeding had begun. If it is assumed that the steers gained

-36-

30 pounds each during the 13-day feeding period, the pasture gains for Lot 1
would be 281,5 pounds for 186 days. Of this gain 151 pounds wsre made the
first 101 days for an average of 1,50 pounds per day and 1*4-7 pounds were made
in the last 85 days for an average of 1,73 pounds per day, The averages for
the first 101-day period are for 10 steers while the averages for the last
period are for 8 steers. Using the same assumptions for Lot 2, a gain of
208 pounds in 186 days is obtained, 1**4 pounds of which were made in the
first 101 days for an average of 1.43 pounds per day, while only 64 pounds
were made in the last 85 days for an average of only 0,75 pound per day*

These results show that during the last half of the grazing period
the gains made on the strip-mine pasture were very much higher than those
made on the bluegrass pasture. The quality of forage on the strip-mine
pasture was excellent throughout the year. The growth of legumes during
the late summer and early fall was especially outstanding*

A summary of the results obtained during the three grazing seasons
in terms of average daily gains is as follows:

Av, daily Av, daily Av. daily Three-year Av.

gain gain gain daily gain

19**8 1949 1950 1948-1950

lb. lb. lb. lb.

Lot 1, strip-mine pasture 1.19 0.98 1.56 1.24
Lot 2, farm-land pasture 1.29 1.10 1.17 1.19

The three-year average daily gain for the Lot 1 steers was 1.24
pounds compared with 1.19 pounds for the Lot 2 steers. The average number of
days on pasture was 176 days, A statistical analysis of the results obtained
over the three-year period shows that the difference in gains made by the
two lots is not significant.

In 1950 it was possible also to obtain the gains nade by several
herds of livestock grazing on strip-mined lands. One of these was a herd of

-37-

Livestock on full feed of concentrate while on t trip-mined pastures in Fulton county*

(*ig. 5)

-38-

95 yearling steers owned by Mr. Byron Somers of Fulton county* The average
weight of these 95 steers was approximately 480 pounds when turned on the
strip-mined pasture on May 5» 1950. Their average weight on December 1, 1950,
was 789 pounds* These steers grassed on the pasta.ro3 for 210 days and had
gained an average of 309 pounds per steer. They made an average dally gain
of 1.4? pounds, whereas the 10 test steers on similar pasture made an average
daily gain of 1.56 pounds during practically the same period.

The Meadowlark Farms, Inc. pastured a total of 95 steers and 33
heifers on strip-mined lands in Fulton county in 1950. The 95 steers were
turned on pasture on May 1 at an approximate weight of 500 pounds. They were
taken off on October 11, at which time 43 of the more common steers were sold
at an average weight of 732 pounds. This represents a gain of 232 pounds in
165 days of grazing or an average daily gain of 1.4 pounds. The rest of the
steers were placed on full feed and have not been marketed as yet.

The 33 heifers also were placed on the strip-mine pastures on
May 1 at an average weight of about 450 pounds. They were taken off on
September 17 when 26 head were sold at an average weight of 648 pounds. This
represents a gain of 198 pounds in 138 days for an average dally gain of 1.4
pounds.
ECONOMIC IKTEEPRBTATIONS:

Methods, Costs, and Feasibility of Forage Species Establishment:

The methods of seeding the mined areas in the past have been hand
seeding, tractor mounted power seeder, and air seeding by airplane and heli-
copter. There were no air seedings of strip-mined land made in Illinois in
1950. The length of time required to seed the areas depends to a great
extent on the species seeded. The seed of some of the grass species is very
light in weight and bulky and requires more time to seed. It required 357

-39-

hours to seed one block of 262 acres by hand seeding or approximately 1 hour
and 22 minutes per acre. Another area of 65 acres was hand seeded in 355
hours or approximately 33 minutes per acre. The windmill type of hand seeder
has been most successful*

The total cost per acre varied greatly depending on the kind of
seed or mixture used, the seeding rate per acre, as well as the labor involved.
During the 1950 season the total costs ranged between $10 to $15 per acre.

Accessibility After Establishment:

In developing a mined area for pasture, accessibility throughout
the area is of prime importance. Those who have had experience in managing
livestock on strip-mined pasture are in accord with the recommendations and
need for adequate roadways. The term adequate is extremely relative and
usually too few roadways are made rather than too many.

Some companies in developing an area for pasture have been knocking
off the tops of all ridges to a width of from 12 to 16 feet before seeding.
On one 305 acre area, using a D-8 dozer, it required 356 hours to top all
ridges to an approximate average top width of Ik feet. Based upon a compe-
tent mining engineering source the total cost of operating a D-8 dozer under
1950 prevailing costs, mine labor rates, insurance, depreciation, etc., was
approximately $7*35 per hour. At the rate of $7*35 P©r hour the cost to
strike-off all the ridges on this 305 acre area would be approximately $8.60
per acre. If the strike-off work can be done for a reasonable amount the
benefits derived will more than repay the costs. The area is readily ac-
cessible to seed either by hand or with tractor mounted seeders, roadways are
already made, the management and control of livestock are made easier, and
the scenery or sky line has been improved.

Financial Returns:

The factor that will determine the extent of development and future

-40-

Yiew of a grading project for a fence line and roadway into a large mined area.
Adequate roadways and fencing into smaller pasture fields for rotational grazing
are essential for efficient livestock management, (Fig. 6)

-41-

uee of mined areas is the financial returns realized from the use of strip-
mined pasture lands or on leveled areas from the product produced. Financial
returns on the pastures are dependent upon the gains made by livestock and
the price of the livestock, and on the leveled areas on the yield and price
of the produce raised.

For example from the pasture lands, if over a 1?6 day pasture season
each steer gained on the average 1*25 pounds per day, then 220 pounds of beef
would be produced per steer* Also assuming, and there is some basis for the
assumption, that the carrying capacity of a good strip-rained pasture is 2 acres
per head or animal unit per year, then each acre of the pasture has produced
110 pounds of beef per year. If the beef were sold at 28 cents per pound, the
gross value would be $30.80 per acre*

What return can be expected from a leveled area? If such an area
were growing alfalfa and were cut for hay, assuming a yield of 3*5 tons of
alfalfa hay per acre (average yield reported in Table 7) and a value of $20
per ton, the gross returns would be $?0 per acre* The actual yield of 1 acre
of alfalfa hay in 1950 was 186 bales or 12,620 pounds or 6*3 tons per acre*
At $20 per ton the gross returns on this acre of leveled land in 1950 were
$126*

One way of utilizing a strip-mined land is by organizing the mined
and unained land into farm units* By following a planned, long-range program,
the costs and problems of establishing a profitable farm unit, the nucleus of
which is the strip-mined land, can be greatly reduced* To accomplish this,
two things need to be done: (l)The lands that do not contain mineable coal,
and which make up a part of every mine property, must be improved and main-
tained as soon as control is acquired, and (2) the mined land must be de-
veloped progressively each year and utilized as soon as It is ready to produce*

-42-

The most concentrated and continued use of these lands will be made in this
way, • — by Incorporating the ained land with surrounding farm land into a
well organized farm unit.

This principle has been put into effect in a number of instances*
According to the Illinois Coal Strippers Association there are 16 units in
operation or under planning and development at this time* These 16 units
involve approximately 9*000 acres of mined land, approximately 5*000 acres of
which were in actual use during 1950 and most of the remaining 4,000 acres
will be used during 1951* The strip-mined areas in these units vary in size
from 80 to 2,500 acres* The units also vary widely from well -planned, highly
organized, operating units and well planned units not yet in full operation
to areas that are used only for grazing purposes.

An example of some of the steps that are taken to organize and

evaluate such a farm unit is presented* A plan similar to this can be drawn

up for the utilization of most of the strip-mined lands in Illinois*

A FARM ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONAL PLAN FOR LAND-USE OF A TYPICAL STRIP-
MIKE AREA PUT INTO OPERATION IN 1950:

Description of Soil and Land Capabilities Classification:
This proposed plan is for 743*5 acres of land that has been classi-
fied as follows: 265 acres of tillable crop land, 206*5 acres of non tillable
land, and 272 acres of strip-mined land* Bie land use capabilities are as
follows:

Class II

179 A*

Clinton and Berwick s.l.

Class III

Rolling Clinton phase

Bottom

Hunt svl lie-like s.l*

Class VI

206*5

Hickory Complex

Spoils

272

Seeded Marcn, 1950

Die Class II land ( 1 1 on map) can be cultivated safely with
easily applied special practices* Bie predominant soil types are Clinton silt
loam and Berwick loam, with a productive rating of 5 to 6* The rotation sug-

-43-

gested is a 2-1-2, or more specific, corn, corn, oats or other small grain,
hay, hay* The conservation practices needed are adequate grass waterways and
the application of limestone and phosphate and the growing of legumes*
Approximately 56 acres of tillable land are Class III

land*

The dominant soil types are probably strongly sloping Clinton silt loam or
lee 8 severe Hickory complex* When the land is cultivated more intensive
conservation practices are necessary* Grass waterways, contour farming, and
a less severe rotation are recommended* The suggested rotation is 1-1-4, or
corn, oats, hay, hay, hay, hay* The remaining 30 acres is bottomland* This
land is subject to overflow, but is potentially productive* The rotation
suggested is corn, beans, with a rye cover crop.

The nontlllable land, Class VI, is land that is not suitable for
cultivated crops but is suitable for pasture. This land should be renovated
for best pasture production* The 272 acres of strip-mined land were thoroughly
sampled and the soil tested* Ninety-five samples were taken and the average
pH was 7*4?, tiie average available phosphorus was 145*7 pounds and the aver-
age available potassium was 153*6 pounds, excellent for potential pas tore
production. This area was seeded during March, 1950, with a mixture of al-
falfa, sweet clover, Mammoth clover, Ladino clover, orchard grass, and brome-
grass at the rate of 20 pounds per acre. These pastures should be ready for
use after April 30, 1951* There is a total of 478*5 acres of pastureland*

The land use capabilities map is presented, and shows field arrange-
ment, size of fields, and possible rotations. The proposed land use during
a complete rotation cycle is also given*

Investment for Limestone and Phosphate :

The soil of the tillable crop land was sampled and tested for

acidity, phosphorus, and potassium. Past history of the fields shows that

-44~

llttle or no limestone or phosphate or manure has been applied the last 8
years. The tests reveal that 3 tons of limestone and 1,000 pounds of rock
phosphate are required on all 265 acres. These applications should be made
as soon as it fits into the rotation to do so, either before the oats or the
teans are seeded.

A summary of the estimates are:

3 T/A. Ls. • $ 3.25/T

1,000 #/A. r.phos. ® 24.00/ T

$ 9. 75/ A.
12.00

Total Cost •

$ 2,583.75
3,180.00

. $ 5,763.75

Commercial fertilizers are also recommended (see Field plans) but
they are considered to be annual expenditures with no carry-over value.

PH0P0SED LAUD USE DURING A COMPLETE ROTATION CYCLE

Field No ,

Class II
1
2

Acres

31 )-38
7)

2 ^

12)
9)-35

1*0

1222

0ats H
Corn

Beans

Corn

Oats
(Lesp.H)

1251

Hay
Oats

Oats
(Lesp.H)

Corn
Corn

1252

Corn

Hay

Oats
Corn

Corn
Corn

Hay

Hay
Oats

122

Oats
Corn

Corn

Hay
Hay

Class III
A

*1
B 2

C 2

'■

179 Acres

11
8

7
10

10
10

H
Corn 0at8 ii

Beans Oats~

Beans Oats

Oats(S.C) Corn
Oats| Hay

Oats H Hay

56 Acres

Bottomland
I
II

1255

Hay
Oats

Corn

Corn
Hay

Hay

Corn

Oats

Hay

Corn

Hay
Oats fl

Hay

Hay
Oats*

Hay

Corn

Hay
Oats

Hay

Corn

Hay

Beans(Cov) Corn Beans (Cov)Corn Beans(Cov)
Corn Beans (Cov) Corn Beans (Cov) Corn

Corn
Beans ( Cov)

30 Acres

265 Acres of Tillable Crop Land*

Koncrop land 206.5 Acres Permanent Place Land Pasture.

Spoils 272 Acres Permanent Spoils Pasture, Seeded March, 1950.

108

105

106

109

478.5

-45-

Acres of Corn 100 95

Acres of Oats 102 98,.^

Acres of Hay (36)(Les) 56 U ;

Acres of Beans 63 16

Acres of Pasture 478.5 478.5

Fence:

She fence lines are shown on the land use map by the lines. The

area around the farm headquarters, northwest quarter of Section 26, will require
approximately 672 rods. Woven wire, plus 2 strands of 4-pt. barb wire, and
posts approximately 1 rod apart, are recommended for this area. The total cost
of the material and erection is estimated to be $2.50 per rod. For the re-
mainder of the fence, 4 strands of ^~pt. barb wire and posts 1 rod apart are sug-
gested. The total cost of this type of construction is estimated to be $1.50
per rod. The following breakdown for the fence is:

1. Northeast quarter, north of haulage road 38O rod

2. Large block of spoils 984 rod

3. West block of spoils 620 rod

4. Hornback area 300 rod

2 284 rod

5. Northwest quarter, woven wire 672 rod

grass Waterways :

No added cost is estimated in the Installation of the waterways be-
cause in most instances this can be accomplished during the time the hay or
meadow occupies the land*

Acreages and Probable Production :

The estimated yields that are expected on this farm are based on
yields predicted in Illinois B-522 "How Productive are Illinois Soils." For
the Clinton silt loam soil type under good soil management the following
yields can be expected: Corn — 64 bushels; soybeans — 24 bushels; oats — 37
bushels; grass-legume hay — 2.2 tons* For the first two years, 195° and 1951»
lower yields have been used and is reflected in the Crops income.

The acreages and probable production areas follows, 1952 being the
year summarized:

-46-

I-
Z

o
z
<

I-
<
u

-I

Q-
<

«/>

a H H

< < <

_i _i _i

u u u

III

§2

'.vy

-■^ J&jSSttvft >fftT>T\ , STO^ffff,^'SBg

-47-

Crop

Acres

Corn
Oats

Soybeans
Ha 7- "baled
Grass silage

Permanent Pasture

45
14

Place land
Spoils

206.5
272

Estimated production

j>er acre

Total

55-67 DU.

6 446 bu.

35 to.

1 575 bu.

24 bu.

336 bu. .

124 i.y

2.2 T.

5.0 T.

390 T.

2 l/2 acres 200 Head
per animal of steers

743.5 Unlt *

*/ The second cutting of area used for grass silage is cut for hay.

Under normal production the carrying capacity of the spoils pasture
has been estimated to be from 2 to 4 acres per animal unit. For this area the
carrying capacity is estimated to be one animal unit per 2 1/2 acres. At this
rate the total pasture area should support approximately 200 head of yearling
steers.

Up to this point the cropping system, the land use possibilities and
the cost of a permanent fertility program have been expounded. The next step
is to fit the livestock program to the cropping system and to estimate Income
and expenditures, and then the rate of earning of the capital invested.

Livestock Enterprise :

As stated previously the farm has a total of 478 acres of permanent
pasture of which 272 acres is mined land. From past experiences with spoil
bank pastures in Illinois the carrying capacity has been estimated at from
2 to 4 acres per animal unit. The carrying capacity is estimated at 2 l/2
acres per animal unit since these are some of the better spoils in Illinois.
At this rate of stocking just under 200 head of steers can be handled.

High good to choice yearling steers are recommended because this
grade can best utilise the large amounts of pasture and roughage that are pro-
duced.

-48-

Cattle feeding risks can be reduced by buying and selling wisely.
From a study of seasonal price movements based on averages over a period of
years, it is shown that the seasonal low for good feeder steers is in the
fall from August to November. The seasonal high price for good fat steers
the past years has been in the fall from August to October with September
being the high month* Prices in a particular year may vary from the seasonal
price due to different factors that may influence prices in any particular
year* Thus, vary buying time and selling time with the present outlook.

In starting this program (1950) it is recommended that about 70 head
(2 carload) of good yearling steers be purchased in August or September, 1950,
weighing about 55® pounds. In the fall of 1951* 200 steers should be purchased.
The steers can utilize wastes such as cornstalks, bean fields, meadow aftermath,
spoil pastures, etc., until approximately December 1. Up to this time the
steers have been owned about 90 days and should weigh between 600 to 625 pounds.

The wintering period is estimated to last until April 15# a period

of about 140 days. Stocker cattle should be wintered sufficiently well to

obtain normal rate of growth with little or no Improvement in condition. This

objective is achieved when approximately 1.0 pound gain per day is made by

yearling steers. The wintering ration recommended Is:

Grass silage 28 pounds for 140 days 200 head 392 T.
Mixed hay and

straw 6 pounds for 1*K) days 200 head 84 T.

The summer pasture is estimated to begin April 15 to 20 at which
time the steers go on the spoil bank pasture. Good rotation management is
necessary to keep the pastures producing well and steers to gain adequately.
The steers will weigh about 725 pounds on April 15» and estimating the follow-
ing monthly gains while on pasture: April, 10 pounds; Kay, 80 pounds; and
June, 60 pounds; a total of 150 pounds. The steers will weigh 850 to 875

-49-

pounds by July 1. At this time they are to begin the 90 to 120 day fattening

period. The feeding for the first 30 days at least can be started while still

on pasture. From results obtained from grazing experiments conducted in 1948

and 1949 the steers have gained 1 pound per day for a 180 day pasture season.

Good 2- year-old steers should make an average daily gain of 2,5

pounds per day while on feed. At this rate of gain they should weigh between

1,050 to 1,100 poiuids by October 1. In an average year at this rate 200

pounds of steers will weigh a total of 210,000 pounds.

The fattening ration suggested is:

30 days on pasture; 13 pounds corn-and-cob meal - Jl days - 200 head - 1,151 bu.
60 days in dry lot; 13*5 pounds shelled corn - 6l days - 200 head - 2,9^1 bu.

6.75 pounds mixed hay - 6l days - 200 head - hi, 2 T.

1 pound protein sup. - 6l days - 200 head - 6.1 T.

The total amount and cost of feed utilized is:

January 1950 January 1951

Estimate Estimate

w . , Grass silage 392 T. © $6.00/T $ 2 352,00 $ 7.50 $ 2 940.00

Winter period ^ y 8J ^ straw 84 T, © 12.00/T. 1 008.00 20.00 1 680.00

Corn 4 092 bu. © .90 3 683. 00 1.75 7 161.00

Fattening ^ 4l#2 T# @ 12.00/T. 500.00 20.00 824.00

period Protein 6.1 T. © 80.00/T. 488.00 90.00 549. 00

$ 8 031.00 $13 15^.00

Hogs Enterprise :

Hogs following full-fed steers can be expected to make 2 pounds gain

per bushel of corn while the steers are fed on legume pasture and 1.5 pounds

per bushel while on dry lot. The ratio of hogs to cattle, no extra corn fed

to hogs is 1.3. At this rate approximately 66 hogs should follow the 200 steers.

For simplicity in computation the 66 hogs are purchased weighing 110 pounds at

15 cents per pound. The gains expected from the hogs:

31 days 1,150 bu. corn fed - 2 lb. gain per bushel - 2,302 lb. or 35 lb/head
6l days 2,941 bu. corn fed - 1.5 lb. gain per bushel - 4,411 lb. or 67 lb/head

A total of 6,713 pounds of pork is produced by this means at no extra cost for

-50-

feed.

A summary of livestock numbers and feed requirement, crop prodaction

and disposal Is as follows:

Grass Protein

Livestock

Corn
bu.

Oats
"bu.

Mixed hay

silage

supplement

Beans
bu.

200 yearling stockeri
200 2-year-olds
66 hogs

4 092

cattle no

84 T.
41.2 T.
extra feed.

392 T.

6.1 T.

Total use
Production
For sale
Purchase

4 092
6 446
2 354

1 575
1 575

125

124

392

390

6.1

336
336

The seasonal high price for grain is as follows: Corn — July; oats-~
April; soybeans — May.

Farmstead Arrangement :

In planning the farmstead an arrangement should be considered that
provides adequate and economical units of construction and land use for maximum
efficiency, beauty and enjoyment. The arrangement of the buildings and lots
and the type of building construction determine to a considerable degree the
efficiency of doing the work at the farmstead as well as the attractiveness
of the home*

Building Requirements :

The values here given are very rough estimates. The physical re-
quirements are those needed for adequate production.

Barn (30 x 50 present now) $ 2 000.00

Shed around barn 2 000.00

Paved lot 2 500.00

Feed bunks 300.00

Crib (8« - 12.000 cu.ft., 4,200 bu. ) 2 200.00

Silo 1 800.00

Machine shed 1 200.00

House 2 500.00

Total value ...... $14 500.00

The center of the farmstead is the barn and crib area. The space
needed per animal is 25 sq. ft. of shed space plus 35 sq. ft. of paved lot

-51-

area. Thus, for 200 head of cattle 5»000 sq. ft. of shed space and 7,000
sq. ft. of pared lot is needed. By "building a shed around the present barn
adequate shed space can he provided. The center of the "barn can he used for
baled hay. The area needed for 125 ton of hay is 20,000 cu. ft. Die paved
lot should be 5 inches thick and reinforced. The estimated cost is $2,500.
Approximately 14, 3 1 x l6 f feeding bunks with access to both sides and
approximately 260 linear feet of hay feeding space is required. A masonry
silo for the grass silage is recommended. The reason for grass silage is this.
Rainy weather at first cutting time usually results in poor quality first
cutting hay. This can be partially solved by using as much of the first cut-
ting as needed for grass silage. Just under 400 tons can be fed.

Approximately 12 gallons of water per head is needed daily. This
needs to be provided only during wintering and fattening periods. Uhere is
adequate water in the spoil bank pastures. Cattle on pasture require approxi-
mately 2,^ pounds of salt per month, and 100 pounds in dry lot. Block salt
is the most convenient form to use. From 20 to 22 pounds of salt per animal
are needed or about 2 tons of block salt per cycle.

Estimated Prices ;

This plan was prepared for action in the spring of 1950. The prices
used were conservative estimates of what prices might be in a declining price
market. Actually as a result of the Korean war and the military preparedness
programs, prices have increased. By using the physical unite, given and the
current prices for each product the financial statement can be adjusted to
any conditions.

The prices used in the estimate ms.de in January, 1950, for the crops
are as follows: Corn, 90 cents; oats, 50 cents; soybeans $1.90 per bushel;
baled hay $12 per ton and grass silage $6 per ton. The current prices for

-52-

the same crops in January, 1951 » were «* follows: Corn, $1.75; oats, 95 cents;
soybeans $3.20 per bushel; hay $20 per ton and grass silage $7.50 per ton.
Using the 1950 estimate the total crop receipts for 1952 would be $11,055 and
using the 1951 current price the crop receipts would be $29,257.00.

Similarly the cost of the feed for livestock based on 195° estimates
would be $3,360 for the wintering period plus $^»665 for the fattening period
making an estimated total of approximately $8,031 compared to a total of
$13,15^ by using the 1951 current price.

The estimate made in 1950 as to what the price of good grade steers
would be in 1952 was 20 cents per pound. Thue , it was estimated that in the
fall of 1951, 200 steers weighing 550 pounds each should be purchased at an
estimated total cost of $22,000. Again using the January, 1951 current price
of approximately 30 cents per pound the total cost of these steers would be
$33,000.

According to Snapp (2) profits from cattle feeding usually result
from selling the original weight of the steer for more than it cost. The
algebraic difference between the sale and cost prices per hundredweight is
referred to as "the margin. H The factors that determine the amount of margin
that must be had to cover all costs are: (l) The initial weight of the cattle,
(2) the cost per hundredweight of the cattle, (3) the cost of the gains made,
and (4) the amount of gains made.

By using the large amounts of grasses and legumes produced on strip-*
mine farms it is possible to keep the cost of livestock gains relatively low.
When light-weight, high-quality cattle are used and the cost of the gains
kept relatively low a profit can be made even when using a zero price margin
spread. In this estimate the purchase price is used as the selling price,
or a zero margin price spread is used.

-53-

The January, 1950 estimate of the price of cattle In 1952 was 20
cents per pound. The current January, 1951 price is approximately 3° cents
per pound. Likewise the 195° estimate of hogs selling in 1952 was 15 cents
per pound but the current 1951 price for hogs is approximately 20 dents per
pound*

Expenditures, Receipts. Net Income. Rate Earned on Capital Investment :

The differences in prices are reflected in the two summary sheets
presented. The first is based on the estimate made January, 1950 of what
prices were to be in the following three years. The second is based on the
current January, 1951 prices. Using the 195° estimates the net returns for
capital and management for 1952 are estimated to be about $9,609 but using
the current 1951 prices as listed the net returns for capital and management
are $20,204. This plan shows that even in a period of lower prices it should
be profitable to utilize the strip-mined lands.

Using the Twenty-fourth Farm Bureau Farm Management report for farms
averaging 340-^99 acres on which livestock is the principal enterprise, the
Strip-Mine Farm, for the year 1952. can be rated or compared in the following
ways:

Strip-Mine
Farm

(Soil Rating 3.1.)

12.9$

$ 10.03

100.41
33.08
43.11

11.99$
$ 16.80
240.21

101.90
118.70

1. Rate earned on investment

2. Net Mgt. returns per acre

3. Capital invested per acre

4. Total ln-puts per acre
5» Total returns per acre

Using the current January, 1951 prices as shown in the second summary
sheet the comparisons are as follows:

1. Rate earned on investment

2. Net Mgt. returns per acre
3 # Capital invested per acre
4. Total in-put s per acre
5» Total returns per acre

22.2$

11.99$

$ 24.29

$ 28.83

122.58

240.21

43.77

101.90

68.06

118.70

_54~

Estimate Made January, 1950 of What Prices May Be,
in a Declining Price Period, for the Following Ohree Years
Summary Sheet Strip-Mine Farm (7^3*5 Acres)

Annual

charge- off

Items Yalue rate 1950 1951 1952

1. Land improvement $ 5 765.00 10# $ 577 $ 577 $ 577

2. Spoil devp. (seed & labor) 3 285.00 10# 329 329 329

3. Access roads, etc. (bldzr) 5 000.00 12 l/2# 625 625 625

4. Fence 5 106.00 5t 256 256 256

5. Buildings 14 500.00 4£ 580 580 580

6. Machinery & equipment 9 300.00 12 l/2# 1 165 1 165 1 165

7. Int. on capital Invest. 42 956.00 $<f, 2 148 2 148 2 148

8. Lives tock - steers (Inv) ) Tw/0 „^,, f - _*.„, 10 867(lnv)26 000 (Inv)

steer, pur. Au«J £&£ d J? £" 8 «5 22 000 22 000

hogs pur. ) eluded in totals 3*5 1 089

9. Interest on livestock 5# 168 603 1 196

10. Feed for livestock 285 * 207 8 031

11. Interest on livestock feed 5# 210 402

12. Labor - operator 2 200 2 200 2 200

hired 1 500 1 500 1 500

13. Machinery & equip. , repairs & fuel 2 5 00 2 500 2 500

14. Seed crop-cultivated 562 384 298

hay 53* *58 279

15. Fertiliser 960 834 135

16. Insurance on livestock 200 500 500
Insurance on buildings 70 70 70

17. Taxes© $1.75/A 1 303 1 303 1 303

18. Miscellaneous 500 500 500
TOTAL INPUTS $17 462 $20 949 $24 594

RKUBHS

Crop 11 322 9 683 11 055

Livestock - steer sales) T - . . . . 16 905 42 000

inventory ) rSfusS? no? !S- W 10 867 26 000 26 000

hogs ) eluded in totals 818 2 089

Livestock returns 10 511 21 000

TOTAL RBTUEHS $11 322 $20 194 $32 055

let returns for management - 3 128 - 755 7 *6l

Plus capital charge 2 148 2 148 2 148

HIT RETURNS FOR CAPITAL AND MANAGEMENT .... - "555 +1 393 +9 609

The capital investments for this farm are:

Land improvements $ 5 765

Spoils development 3 285

Access roads, etc. (development) 5 000

Fence 5 106

Buildings 14 500

Machinery 9 300

Livestock 23 089

Feed and seed 8 608

TOTAL CAPITAL INVESTKBN? $74,653

-55-
Bstimate Using Current January, 1951 Prices for 1951 and 1952
Summary Sheet Strip-Mine Farm (743*5 Acres)

Items

1. Land Improvement

2» Spoil devp. (seed, etc*)

3* Access roads

4. Fence

5* Buildings

6. Machinery & equipment

7. Int. on capital investment

8. Livestock - steers (Inv) )

steers pur. Aug. )
hogs pur. )
9* Interest on livestock

10. Feed for livestock

11. Interest on livestock feed

12. Labor • operator

hired

13. Machinery A equip., repairs &

14. Seed crop-cultivated

hay

15. Fertiliser

16 • Insurance on livestock
Insurance on buildings

17. Taxes ® $1.75/ A

18. Miscellaneous

Value

$ 5 765.00
3 285.00
5 000.00
5 106.00

14 500.00
9 300.00

42 956*oo

Annual

charge-off

rate

10#
10£
12 l/2#

5*
4*

12 l/2#
5*

Included to show
volume; not in-
cluded in totals

1251

$ 577
329
625
256

580

165

148

12 250

33 000

46o

959

6 287

314

2 200

1
2

fuel

1
2

500
500
384
458
834
500
70

303
500

TOTAL IHPUTS $32 469

RETUBHS

Crop

Livestock ~ steer sales) included to show
inventory ) volume; not in-
hogs ) eluded in totals

Livestock returns

TOTAL RETURNS •

Net returns for management

Plus capital charge

SET RETURNS FOB CAPITAL AHD MANAGB4ENT . .

17 398
20 580
39 000

1 090
13 960

fcl 358
- 1 131

2 148
+ 1 017

The capital Investments for this farm using January, 1951 prices are:

Land Improvements $ 5 765

Spoils development 3 285

Access roads, etc* (development) 5 000

Fence 5 106

Buildings 14 500

Machinery 9 300

Livestock 34 452

Feed and seed 13 731

TOTAL CAPITAL INVESTMENT* $91 139

1
2

577
329
625
256

580

165

148

39 000

33 000

1 452

1 806

13 154

658

200

500

384

458

834

500

303

500

1
2

$32 547

19 257

63 000

39 000

2 798

$50 603

+18 056

2 148

+20 204

-56-

There has been no value placed on the land In the above calculations

mainly for the reason that the total cost of the land to the company has been

entirely amortized in the cost of mining. Any value placed on this land will,

of course, reduce the net profits expected. A detailed outline of the grain

and livestock program to be followed for the three years, 1950 to 1952, is

presented in Appendix A.

A LIST OF REFERENCE MATERIAL THAT IS HELPFUL IN WORKING UP A FARM PLAN INCLUDES
THE FOLLOWING:

1. Soil Report for County - Illinois Agricultural Experiment Station.

2. How Productive are the Soils of Central Illinois. Illinois Agricultural
Experiment Station Bulletin 522. 19^7.

3. A Guide for the Management of Soils, Field Crops, and Pastures in Illinois.
Illinois Agricultural Experiment Station and Soil Conservation Service,
USDA. January, 1950.

4. Illinois Agricultural Handbook. Extension Service in Agriculture and Home
Economics. University of Illinois College of Agriculture. 19**9»

5. Planning the Farm Business. University of Illinois College of Agriculture,
Extension Service. 19^7.

6. Planning the Illinois Farmstead for Efficiency, Health and Enjoyment.
Extension Service, University of Illinois College of Agriculture. 19^6*

7. Illinois Farm Economics, Extension Service, Department of Agricultural
Economics, University of Illinois College of Agriculture. May, 19^7»

8. Tenth Annual Report of Feeder Cattle. Illinois Agricultural Experiment
Station. August, 19^9.

9. Buying Feeder Cattle by Walter J. Wills, Department of Agricultural
Economics, University of Illinois College of Agriculture, A.E. 2626. May,
19^9.

10. Suggestions for Increasing Labor Efficiency Emergency Farm Labor Program.
College of Agriculture, University of Illinois, FL 100. January, 19^5*

11. Midwest Farm Handbook, Iowa State College Press. November, 19^9.

12. First, Second and Third Annual Reports of Work on a Cooperative Investigation
Conducted by University of Illinois, Agricultural Experiment Station and
Illinois Coal Strippers Association. 19^7, 19**8 and 19^9.

13. High Quality Forage by Dr. G. Bohstedt, Department of Animal Husbandry,
University of Wisconsin.

-57-

14* Annual Reports of the Farm Bureau Farm Management Service, Department of
Agricultural Economics, University of Illinois, College of Agriculture.
Current years*

FUTURE PLANS AND DISCUSSION

Many of the phases of the project that are now in progress will be
continued or expanded* These will include seedlngs of species that have given
indication of value and require further study, expansion of spoil type studies,
continuation of soil infiltration work, forage yield measurements, animal gains,
analysis for chemical composition, etc*

There has been a marked change in the thinking and action programs
of member companies in the problem of utilizing the strip-mined lands* It
should be repeated that there is no one method of reclamation that is the best
or that will solve all the problems* Rather several methods when forcibly put
into effect demonstrate that the areas are productive and can be a profitable
financial holding*

SUMMARY

Based on soil reaction or pH and available nutrient content the
strip-mined lands in Illinois can be classified as being potentially excellent
for the production of forage crops* Due to the heterogeneity of the soil
material thorough sampling and testing should be done before using any area*
In several areas of Illinois the physical and chemical nature of the overburden
is such that grading appears to be feasible* Studies on soil structure and on
the growth of forage further substantiate this*

Grasses and legumes can be established on most of the strip-mined
lands in Illinois* The chemical composition of the forage produced is as
high or higher than average in the essential nutrients, protein, phosphorus,
calcium and potassium. The three-year average daily gain of steers that grazed
the forage growing on strip-mined pastures was 1*24 pounds compared to 1*19

-58-

pounds for the control steers that grazed on unmined lands*

The most concentrated and continued use of mined lands can he made
by incorporating the mined land with surrounding farm land into a well
organized farm unit. Such use is shown to he quite profitable even in a period
of lower prices*

Bibliography

1* Kohnke, H* The reclamation of coal mine spoils* Advances In Agronomy,
Vol, II, 1950.

2. Snapp, B* B. Beef Production* John Wiley & Sons, Inc., lew York* 19^8.

3* Vaksman, S* A* Principles of Soil Microbiology* Die Williams and
Wilkins Company, Baltimore, Maryland* 1927*

AGRONOMIC LAND USE RESEARCH ON THE MINED AREAS
OF TEE STRIPPED COAL LANDS OF ILLIFOIS

APPENDIX A

-1-

APPENDIX A: DETAILED FIELD AND CROPPING PLAN FOR 3- YEAR PERIOD (1950-52)

1950 FIELD AND CROPPING PLAN

SEE LAND USE MAP FOR FIELD ARRANGEMENT

Fid. (l) 36 Acres Cost/A

Seed to oats 1 1/2 bu/A @ 70 cents $ 1.05

(Clinton oatt)

Legume-grass seed 7.05

Alfalfa 6 @ .65 $3.90

Red CI. k ® .60 2.40

Tim. 3 @ .25 .75

Fertilizer 100 lb. 0-20-20 & 60.00/T 3.00

$ 11.10 x 36 - $ 399.60

Limestone and rock phosphate should he applied before
seeding. Cost figured as one lump sum in summary - not
figured extra here. If Is. and phosphate is not applied
do not seed clover mix.

YIELDS - 35 bu/A expected (unless oats too late)

1260 bu. x 55 cents/bu. - $ 693.00

Fid. (2) 38 Acres

Plant to corn (corn and beans now)

9 lb/A @ 20 cents/lb. $ 1.80

Nitrogen (top-dress) 200 lb. Ammonium

nitrate per acre - $3.80/cvt. 7«60

$ 9.40 x 38A -$ 357.40

YIELDS - 55 bu/A x 38A = 2090 bu.

Estimate receipt - 1.10 per bu.

price support $2 299.00

Fid. (3) 34 Acres

Seed Beans (Lincoln or Hawkeye)

2 bu/A & 2.30/bu. $ 156.*K) $ 156.^0

YIELDS - 24 bu/A x 34/ A - 8l6 bu.

Estimate price - $1.90 at harvest time $1 550.40

Aoply Is. and rhosnhate after plowing before seeding.

-2-

1950 PLANS (CONT'D)

Fid. (4) 35 Acres

To Corn

9 lb/A ® 20 cents $1.80

Nitrogen 200 lb. NH^NO^ 7*60

$ 9.40 x 35A - $ 329.00

YIELDS - 55 ou/A i 35A - 1925 bu. © 1.10 - $ 2 117.50

Fid. (5) 36 Acres

Seed to Oats

Seed 1 1/2 bu/A © 70 cents $1.05

20 lb. Lespedeza No. 1960*4- © .09 1.80

$ 2.85 x 36A - $ 102.60

YIELDS - 35 bu/A x 36A - 1260 bu. x .55 $ 693-00

Lest). Hay 1.5T/A © $15.00/Ton

54 Ton x $15 $ 810.00

Total Receipts - $ 1 503.00

CLASS III LAND - RED

Fid. A. 11 Acres (Estimate)

Plant to corn (Do not plow thru the gullies)
9 lb/ A © 20 cents $ 1.80

Top-dress Nitrogen 200 lb. NH^NO^

3. 80 cwt. 7.60

$ 9.40 x 11A - $ 103.1*0
YIELDS - 40 bu/A 11A = 440 bu. © $1.10 - $ 484.00

Fid. Bi and B2 - Treat as one field this year. Pull old saplings, etc. and

get ready for beans

15 Acres

60 lb/A © 6 cents/lb. - $3. 60/ A x 15 $ 54.00

YIELDS - 20 bu/A 15A = 300 bu A $1.90 - $ 570.00

-3-

1950 PLANS (C0NT l D)

Fid, C-j^ & 2 & 3 30,5 Acres

Treat as one field. La and phosphate this
spring if possible.

Seed to oats Cost/ A

Oats - 1 1/2 bu/A ® .70 $ 1.05

Legume mix 7*05

Alfalfa 6 & .65 - $3.90

Red CI. 4 © .60 - 2.40

Tim. 3 ® .25 .75

fertilizer 100 Id. 0-20-20 @ $60/T 3.00

I $ 11. 10/ a x 30. 5A - $333.55

YIELDS - 35 W A

x 30. 5A « 1,067.5 *u. ® .55 $587.13

Bale all oat straw to use for winter roughage and bedding

BOTTOMLAND ( GREEN )

Fid I 14 Acres

Seed to Beans - 2 bu/A $ 4.60 x 14/ A - $ 64.40

YIELDS - 24 bu/A x 14a = 336 bu. @ $1.90 - $638.40

(Apply Ls and rock phosphate as needed ahead of seeding)

Fid II 16 Acres

Pull Saplings - prepare field

Plant to corn

9 lb/Corn @ 20 cents $ 1.80

200 lb. NH^N03 ^ top or slde dressln g) 7.60

$ 9.20 x 16/A - $147.20
YIELDS - 50 bu/A x l6A - 800 bu. » $1.10/bu. - $880.00

-4~

1950 LIVESTOCK PROGEAM

Buy 70 head of steers from Aug, 15-30 @ 23 cents lb,
weighing 550 lb.

70 head - $126.50/head $ 8,855.00

Turn on pastures, after meadow math., bean fields, cornstalk, etc,

Aug. 15 - Dec. 1 - 105 days - weight about 600 lb. Pec. 1,

Winter Feeding Peri od

Dec, 1 to April 15 - about 135 days.

Feed so that they gain about 1 lb, per day or so they will weigh
approximately 725-750 1°» when they go on pasture.

Viinter patlcn

16 lb, hay per day - mixed legume -
x70

1120 lb, per day for herd x 135 day* = 75»6 tons

x $15,00/ ton

Total cost of hay - $ 1,13^.00

About $285 of this bill until Dec. 1, - rest 1951 year's cost figures.
About 18 tons of the 75.6 tons will be used in 1950,

See Summary Sheet for total expenses for each enterprise. The inventory value
carried to 1951 on the steers is based on 625 lb. weights at 23 cents per
pound.

-5-

i95i crop plans (corr 1 !))

BOTTOM

I 14 Acres

Corn

9 lb/A © 20 cents $1.80 x 14 $ 25.20

YIELD: 55 bu/A x 14- 770 btu © 95 cents $ 731.50

II 16 Acres

Beans

1.5 bu/A © 1,90 2.85 x 16 $ ^5.60

Ryeseed 1.5 bu. © 1.25 1.87 * 16 30.00

$ 75.60

YIELD: 24 bu/A x 16a - 384 bu. © 1.90 $ 729.60

19 5 1

Instead of cutting the hay for hay as estimated - cut

Fid 1 for silage - 8 ton/A 36A = 288 tons
Fid C x and 2 silage " 20 - 160

448 tons - ^92 tons needed

Hay needed - 84 tons

Hay produced - Lespedeza - 5* to^s

Bal€:ci oat straw will make the rest of the forage
needed.

Yields and receipts should vary but little from estimates so nc changes are
made. I believe this method of harvesting the hay is a gr^at improvement in
quality of feed than relying en hay only.

-6-

1951 FIELD AM) CROPPING PLAN

Fid (1) 36 Acres

Hay

YIELD: 2.2 tons x 36 = 79 tons © $14.00 $1 106.00

Fid (2) 38 Acres

Seed to oats Cost/A

2 bu/A © 70 cents $ 1,40

Grass-Legume seed 6 o 20

Alfalfa 6 e .60 3.60

Eed CI. J* .50 2.00

Tim. 3 © .20 .60

Fertilizer - 100 lb. 0-20-20 © 3.0 3.00

$10.60/A x 36 - $ 402.80

YIELD: 35 bu/A x 38/ A = 1330 bu. 8 .55 - 731.50

Fid (3) Jk Acres

Oats

2 bu/A $ l.fcO

Lespedeza seed 9 cents/lb. <- 20 lb. 1.80
Fertilizer 0-20-20 3.00

$ 6.20 x 34A - $ 210.80

YIELD: Oats - 35 bu/A x 34A - 1190 bu. • .55 - $ 654.50
Lesp. Hay - 1.5T/A x 34 - 51 tons © $14 - 714.00

$1 368.50

Fid (4) 35 Acres

Corn

Seed 9 lb/20 cents $ 1.80

Fertilizer 7.6O

$ 9.40/A x 35A - $ 329.00
YIELD: 45 bu/A x 35A - 1575 bu. © .95 - $1 496.25

-7-

1951 CROP PLAITS (COITT^)

Tld (5) 36 Acres

Corn

Seed 9 lb/A ® 20 cents $ 1*80

200 lb, HH4HO3 3. 80 cvt. 7.60

$ 9.40/A x 36A = $ 338.40

YIELD: 55 bu/A 36A 1980 bu. • .95 $1 881.00

CLASS III (Sf4) Land

Tide A - 11)

Bi - 7) 26 Acres
B 2 - 8)

Oats seed 2 bu/A $ 1.40

Hay seed 6.20

Alfalfa 6 .60 3.60

Red CI. k .50 2.00

Timothy 3 .20 .60

fertiliser 3.00

Total Cost $ 10.60 x 26a - $ 275.60

YIELD: 35 bu/A * 26a = 910 bu. • .55 % 500.50

C 1 10 Acres

Corn

1.80/A Seed (9 lb/A @ 20 cents) $ 18.00
YIELD: 55 bu/A x 10 ■ 550 bu. © 95 cents $ 522.50

^2 \ 20 Acres

C 3 >

Hay
YIELD: 2.2 tons per acre x 20 = 44 tons © $14.00 $ 616.00

-8-

1951 LIVESTOCK PLAN

The 70 steers weigh 625 lb. each Jan. 1, and are to weigh 725-750 oy April
15* The remaining winter ration and cost is:

57 tons of hay • $14.00 - $ 798.00

Corn and cob meal - 484.00

Total Cost $ 1 282.00

On April 15 they will weigh an estimated 725 lb. each.

PASTURE

J*rom April 15 until July 10 - on pasture alone.

If they gain 10 lb. each in April* 80 lb. in May, 60 lb. in June and 10 lb.
to July 10, at that date they will weigh about 875 pounds.

f ATTESTING PERIOD

Teed the steers on pasture nearest the barn area. If fed from July 10 to
Sept. 30 - 82 days, and if they gain 2*5 lb. per day, they should weigh 1,080 lb*
by Sept. 30. Estimate they will average 1,050 lb. and sell for 23 cents (purchase
price - no margin).

The gross receipts on 73*500 lb* of beef will be - $16 905.00

FEED REQUIRED DURING FATTENING PROGRAM:

Hay - 7# x 70 x 82 a 20 tons of leg. hay » $14.00 - $ 280.00

Shelled Corn-15# x 70 x 82 s 1435 bu. corn ® $ 1.00 bu.- 1 435.00

Protein Sup - 1# x 70 x 82 ■ 2.87 tons » $80.00 - 229.60

$1 944.60

Sept. 1, 1951 - "buy 200 head hi good steers weighing 550 lb. ® 20 cents.

Clean up period until December 1, 1951

31 days wintering on:

28# Grass-leg. silage - 86.8 tons © $6.00 $ 520.30

6# Hay - mixed (A straw) - 18.6 tons • 12.00 232. 50

Total $ 7r?09

Total feed Costs $3 979.90

CLOSING INVENTORY
Steers weigh 650 lb. d 20 cents (no margin) x 200 s $ 26 000.00

-9-

By letting hogs run with the steers while on feed, some of the waste
corn can he salvaged.

Buy 23 hogs weighing 100 Id. for $15/cwt. - $3^5.00 cost

By Octoher hogs will weigh 23? lb. each @ 15 cents

5^51 lb. 817. 65

(See Summary Sheet)

-io~

1952 FIELD AND CROPPING PLAN

Jld. (1) 36 Acres Corn

Cost $1.?5/A x 36 Acres $63.00

Yield 67 bu/A x 36 Acres = 2,412 bushels ® .90 - $2 170.80

Fids. (2) A (3) 72 Acres Hay cut for grass silage

Yield 5 Tons/A - 36O Tons ® $6.00/Ton - $2 160

(1st cutting only for silage)
2nd cutting, 72 acres yielding 3/^ T/A -
54 x 12 648

$2 808

Fid. (4) 35 Acres Oats

2 bu/A ® .60 $1.20 x 35 $42.00

Grass & legume seed 6. 20 x 35 217.00

Alfalfa 6 60

Bed CI. 4 50

Timothy 3 20
Fertilizer 100 lb/A
0-20-20 3-00 x 35 105.00

Yield 35 bu/A 35 Acres - 1,225 bu. © .50 612.50

Fid. (5) 36 A Corn

Seed $1.75/A 36 Acres $63.00

Yield 67 bu/A 36 Acres - 2,412 bu. ® .90 $2,170.80

Class III (red)

A) 36 Acres - Cut 6 Acres for silage 1st cut 5 T/A

B) - 30 T. Silage ® $6.00 - $180.00

C) Hay - second cut on 6 Acres. Total of 4 Tons
Hay 30 A x 2.2 T/A 66 Tons

70 Tons @ 12.00 - 840.00

$ 1 020.00

C^ Oats, 10 Acres

Seed $1.20 x 10 - $12.00

Legume seed 6,20 x 10 - 62.00

Fertilizer 3.00 x 10 30.00

$104.00

Yield: 35 bu/A 10 Acres - 350 bu. x .50 - $175.00

C2 Corn 10 Acres

Seed $1,75 x 10 - $17.50

Yield: 55 bu/A x 10 - 550 bu. • .90 - $495.00

-11-

1952 PLANS (CONT'D)

Bottomland

I 1** Acres Beans

Seed $3.65/A x W - $51.10

Eye CoTer Crop 1.50/A x 14 21,00

$72.10

Yield: 24 bu/A 14 Acres - 336 bu. © $1.90 - $638.40

II Corn 16 Acres

Seed $1.75/ A x 16 $23.00

Yield: 67 bu/A. 16 Acres - 1,072 bu. © .90 - $964.80

1952 LIVESTOCK PLAN

Steers weigh 650 lb. rained at $26,000 on January 1. Ration for wintering con-
tinued from December 31, 1951 •

28 lb, grass silage 305.2 Tons $6.00 - $1 831.20

6 lb. hay 65.4 Ions 12.00 - 734.80

COST $2 616.00

Summer Pasture - April 15, Weight 725-750
Gain April 10
Nay 80
June 60

150 pounds 150

$875 July 1

Fattening

Feed 30 days on pasture

13 lb. corn and cob meal, 31 days - 200 head - 1,151 bushels

60 days dry lot

Corn 13.5 61 days x 200 head 2,941 bu.

Protein 1 61 days x 200 head 6.1 Tons

Mixed hay 6.75 61 days x 200 head 41.2 Tons

Total Teed and Cost (Winter & Fattening)

Corn 4,092 bu. © .90 $3 683

Hay 106.6 © $12.00 1 279.20

Grass silage 305.2 © 6.00 1 831.20

Protein 6.1 © 80.00 T. 48 8.00

$7 281.40 $7 281.40

Sell steers October 1 weighing 1,050 lb. for 20 cents. 210,000 lb. of beef - 42,000

September 1, purchase 200 more steers (hi-goods)

550 lb. © 20 - $22,000
Clean up period until December 1, 1952
31 days wintering

28 lb. grass silage 86.8 T $6.00 $520

6 lb. Hay A straw 18.6 T 12.00 230

$750 750.00

TOTAL FEED COSTS $8 031.*»O

Closing Inventory, December 31, 1952

Steers 65O lb. © 20 cents - x 200 — $26,000

-12-

Hay Enterprise 1952 : Hogs running with the steers while fattening is a worth-
while project. For simplicity following estimates are made*.

Buy 66 hogs weighing 110 Id. each to 15 cents — $1 089.00
By Oct. 1 they will weigh 212 lb. each ® 15 cents 2 099.00

See summary sheet for explanation.

SUMMARY OF CROP YIELDS AMD EXPENSES

Figld^

(1) 36a Corn
(5) 36A Corn
62 10 Acres
II 16 Acres

(4) 35A Oats
C x 10A

I 14A Beans

Yield

2 412 bu.

550 bu.

1 072 bu.

6 446 bu.

1 225

350

1 575

336

January 1950
estimate of
receipts

Seed
Crops

Cost

Legumes

Fertilizer

$2 170.80

2 170. 80

495.00

964.80

$5 801.40

$ 63. oc

63.OO
17.50
28.00

$ 612.00
175.00

42.00
12.00

$217.00
62.00

$105.00
30.00

$ 737.00

638.40

72.10

$297.60 $279.00

78A Silage

72A Hay
36A

390 Tons

2 * ons L $1 488
70 Tons)

"l24 Tons

2 3^.00

$11 054. 80

AFG:lap
2-7-51

US//**.

r\<zr\

extension Service in Agriculture

" and Home F«

,pjr.

THE POTENTIALITIES OF REVEGETATING AND UTILIZING
AGRONOMIC SPECIES ON STRIP MINED AREAS

IN ILLINOIS

Kfc

A PROGRESS REPORT
COVERING THE FIFTH YEAR OF WORK ON A COOPERATIVE INVESTIGATION

CONDUCTED BY
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

AND
ILLINOIS COAL STRIPPERS ASSOCIATION

NOTE

The agreement covering this investigation provides that:— "No account of a co-
operative research project shall be published by the sponsor or by any other agency, ex-
cept upon approval of the division of the University, or head of the department in which
the work is being done."

Permission for the reproduction of this report has been granted with the understand-
ing that it is to be released for the confidential information of members of Illinois Coal
Strippers Association only, and not to be quoted or released for publication.

Telephone CEntral 6-7044

ILLINOIS COAL STRIPPERS ASSOCIATION

307 NORTH MICHIGAN AVENUE
CHICAGO 1, ILLINOIS

WILLIAM H. COOKE A. J. CHRISTIANSEN

PRESIDENT SECRETARY-TREASURER

CARL T. HAYDEN FOREWORD

VICE PRESIDENT

To Members of Illinois Coal Strippers Association

Gentlemen:

On February 1, 1947, Illinois Coal Strippers Association
entered into an agreement with the Agricultural Experiment Station,
University of Illinois, covering a project of cooperative research
into the possibilities of revegetating and utilizing grasses and
legumes on strip mined areas for stock range and other purposes.

This project was originally set up on an estimate that it
would require five years of research in order to arrive at sound
conclusions. It has, however, been extended for three more years
and is now entering upon its sixth year. A progress report cover-
ing the first year of operation issued on March 19, 1948 dealt
principally with the proposed scope and plan of attack on the prob-
lem; a survey of spoil bank soils found throughout the state, and
preliminary reports on a number of seeding projects. The second
report was issued on March 15, 1949; the third report issued on
March 6, 1950 and the fourth report, issued on March 1, 1951, pre-
sented further information on spoil bank soil materials, and com-
parisons of such materials with surface soils found on adjoining
land; the adaptation of various forage species to spoil bank soils;
the results of preliminary studies of comparative gains made by
animals pastured on spoil banks with those pastured on undisturbed
blue grass and highly improved grass-legume pasture and the utili-
zation of stripped land for pasture.

The report here presented covers the fifth year of opera-
tion. It is expected that a consolidated final report, covering
the first five years of the program, will be made some time during
1952.

The studies to be made during the next three years will
carry on the uncompleted work of the present research program and,
in addition, will include several other phases of the strip mining
problems dealing with grading, types of overburden, compaction,
drainage, organic matter content, pasture carrying capacities,
pasture management, weed and brush control, etc., and a report will
be issued each year as the program progresses.

Secretary
April 1, ]952

*TI

r«c .

AGRONOMY PROJECT

NUMBER:
TITLE:

OB J ECT :

1003 « Fifth Annual Report*

Agronomic Land Use Research on the Mined Areas
of the Stripped Coal Lands of Illinois.

The objectives of the project are to invest!*-
gate the potentialities of reveg eta ting
and utilizing agronomic species on the strip-
mined areas in Illirois

LEADERS;

A. L« Lang, J. A. Jackobs, J. N„ Spaeth, and
R. R. Snapp.

V3-

Advisory Committee: -

Dean H. P. Rusk

M. B. Russell

P. C. Bauer

J. C. Hackleraan

J, N. Spaeth

A. J, Christiansen

Louis S. Weber

Agronomist — Alten F, Grandt.

AGRONOMIC LAND USE RESEARCH ON THE MINED AREAS
OP THE STRIPPED COAL LANDS OF ILLINOIS
by Alten F. Grandti/

The fifth annual report of progress on Agronomy Project 1003, covering
the investigations of the potentialities of revegetating and utilizing agronomic
species on strip-mined lands is herewith presented. This is a cooperative re-
rearch project of the University of Illinois Agricultural Experiment Station
and the Illinois Coal Strippers Association.

This project was initiated in 19^+7 » At that time it was estimated that
at least 5 years would he necessary to thoroughly explore the subject and to
gather facts that would he essential to develop the highest potential uses of
the mined lands from an agronomic viewpoint. As the result of past research it
has been shown that much of the strip— mined land in Illinois can he and is being
reclaimed with agronomic species, frore research is necessary to study basic
problems that have arisen. The Illinois Coal Strippers Association has expressed
the desire to continue the project for at least 3 years longer.

Experimental research is being carried on at 25 different locations in
14 counties. Approximately 50 acres on these locations have been used for
experimental plots in this project. Figure 1 shows the general locations where
these plots have been established.
SOIL INVESTIGATIONS:

Soil Tests of Strip-Mine Soil Material:

As of December 31 t 1951. 1,^84 soil samples have been collected from
the experimental plot areas and all have been tested by the University of Illinois
Soil Testing Laboratory. Table 1 shows the average amounts of plant nutrients
found in the soil material. The overall average of these tests shows the acidity

Special Research First Assistant, Soil Fertility, Department of Agronomy, University
of Illinois, Agricultural Experiment Station, Urbana*

The author acknowledges with thanks the assistance, advice and encouragement re-
ceived from L. S. Weber, Land Use Engineer, Illinois Coal Strippers Association,
and H. J, Snider, Assistant Professor of Soil Fertility, Illinois Agricultural
Experiment Station, in conducting these investigations.

-2-

AGRONOMY DEPARTMENT, UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, URBANA

«»•

Coal Companies
S oil t Hern Illinois

1- Sahara
2- Delta

pf-rof sy the-V/ l iiiamp on
3-f.f. ElkriUe
4-pJl. Fidelity
5-Pyfamid
6- Southwestern
|3-6etinole
7-

WINNEBAGO

m *OCK ISLAND

rfiivest BadiantTM^c^ —

£*§.

8-Sdlar

4drgan

• £. Buckheai
,E. Cuba
T. Piatt
irriev
!|5-M.E. fiapatee-Fa|rmi]
:|6-ilittle John

Jo 'them Illinois

O-tittle Sisti

ern Illinois

BOONE

M<-NENPf

LAKE.

DEKALB

KANE \COOH

KENDAL L

DUPAGE

WILL

6NUNDY

*.j.9 .ZOtKKAKET

] ?- H.E # Sheffield

1 3- (orris
3 ?- lor them

2 Vfilmington
2 Wlorthern

IROQUOIS

Ea stern Illinois
$2 --^yrshire-Harma titan

ILLINOIS

XALt-STATVTt MILtS

Vt»miLIOH

M379

Location of Experimental Plots on Strip-Mined Coal Lands in Illinois

(Pig. 1)

-3-

Table 1.— Soil Analysis of Spoil Bank Material

Number of

Acidity

Phosphorus

Potassium

Plot locations

County

samples

average

Note

.pHS/

ib.sy

lb JU

Southern Illinois

Sahara

Saline

4.5

169

Shale and S.S,
rock

Delta

Williamson

6.3

134

Forsythe-William-

son

Williamson

6.3

178

169

(Local acid
spots

Truax, Elkville

Jackson

6.3

117

173

(Frequent acid

U.S. Fidelity

Perry

6.6

155

208

(spots

Pyramid

Perry

7.3

160

Southwestern

Randolph

7.3

138

Seminole

St. Clair

7.6

126

168

*Lofi&aal

Midwest Radiant

St. Clair

175

7.1

116

131

* mm wv O 9C» m*

Subtotal and averages

562

6.6

116.3

156.3

Western Illinois

Solar

Schuyler

6.8

171

224

Key

Pulton

7.6

107

103

Morgan

Pulton

7.1

178

230

Little Sister

Pulton

7.5

173

190

U.E. Buckheart

Pulton

7.6

112

133

U.S. Cuba

Pulton

7.5

150

160

T.T. Piatt

Pulton

114

7.8

146

149

Fairview

Pulton

6.7

144

172

Midland Electric

Fulton-Knox

155

7.2

156

164

Little John

En ox

6.9

174

192

M.S. Atkinson

Henry

7.3

174

288

Subtotal and averages

624

7.3

153

173

Northern Illinois

M.E. Sheffield Bureau
Northern Illinois Grundy-Will
Morris Grundy

Wilmington Will
Northern Illinois Kankakee

7.4

152

217

Shaly

6.9

142

192

Shaly

3.1

144

Highly acid

7.6

170

(Compact and

7.6

110

184

(plastic

Subtotal and averages

276

6.9

125

191

Eastern Illinois
Harmattan Vermilion

Total and averages

1,484

6.7

6.97

132

201

171

(Compact and
plastic; red-
dish material
high in sand)

*/uH-

pH - 7.0 neutral; P - 92 lb. /A, high; K ~ 150-500 lb./A, high.

or pH to be 6*97 or nearly neutral, the available phosphorus content to "be 132
pounds per acre and the arailable potassium content to be 1?1 pounds per acre*
One hundred thirty-seven soil samples vere taken and tested during the 1951
season* The averages remained practically the same as reported in 1950 o

In addition to the samples taken from the plot areas over 400 field
samples have been taken. The results obtained have been nearly identical with
the averages obtained from the plot areas*

The soil tests show that a very large percentage of strip-mined lands
In Illinois is satisfactory for the production of legumes and grasses „ let wide
variations often occur within relatively small areas. Therefore, it should be
reemphasized that when contemplating a use for a particular area of strip-mined
land, thorough sampling and testing are very important*

The value of soil tests for phosphorus on strips-mined land has been
questioned. The assumption of the criticism is that soil tests are not a true
measure of phosphate availability on soils with high pH values. Since, especially
in western Illinois, the pH at several locations averages over 7*5. this criticism
needs clarification* The soil test for phosphorus on this high pH soil reads
very high and indicates adequate phosphorus availability* In fertility studies,
legumes have shown no stand or yield response to applications of a complete
fertilizer (8-8-8) at the rate of 500 to 750 pounds an acre* Good prolific stands
of legumes have been obtained without any added fertilizer* Therefore, it is
assumed that the legumes are getting adequate phosphorus from the soil material*
On the other hand grasses, while giving excellent response to nitrogen fertilizer*
have given very little or no further response when additional phosphate has been
applied*

Up to this time major emphasis of soil tests has been placed on soil

reaction or pH and the available phosphorus and potassium con ten t c However, the
importance of trace elements In strip-mined soil material has frequently been
questioned. For example, boron is one of the trace elements that is occasionally
lacking in farm soils. Legumes, especially alfalfa, are particularly sensitive
to a deficiency of boron (9)* The primary effect of boron fertilizer on legumes
is to increase the quality of forage. On soils extremely deficient in available
boron, an Increase in forage yield is noted. Boron is also quite efficient in
Increasing the seed set of alfalfa and other legumes.

Sight soil samples taken from graded areas in western Illinois were
analysed for the available boron content by the Soil Testing Laboratory at the
University of Illinois, The results obtained are listed in Table 2,

Table 2,~«Special Soil Test Report for Available Boron

Company

County

Available

phosphorus

Available
potassium

Available

boron

Boron
rating

U,E, Buckheart

Fulton

7.4
7.2

176
152

142
178

10,0
6,0

Very high
High

T,T. Watt

Fulton

7.3
7.4

204+
204*

254

224

7.0
10,0

Very high
Very high

Falrview

Fulton

7.2
7.4

204+

204*

208
224

10,0
4,0+

Very high
High

M,£, Bapatee

Knox

7.1
7.2

204
204

243
265

12,0
12,0

Very high
Very high

Farm land soils are classified as low, medium or high in available

boron according to the following scale:

Pounds of Available

Boron per Acre Test Bating

0-1 low

1-2 medium

3** high

6 plus very high

mo**

Based on this classification these strip-mined soils are high to very
high in available boron* The excellent growth of legumes and the good seed set
of alfalfa growing on these soils indicate that the plants are getting adequate
boron*

Another angle to the boron problem is that excesses may be toxic* Borax
is one of the old time weed killers* Consequently, the question has been raised
regarding the quantity of available boron in these strip-cined soils that would
be toxic to the grasses and legumes* Toxicity effects have not been noticed to
date on forage crops growing on these soils*

Mechanical Analysis of Strip-Mine Soil Material:

The mineral particles of a soil range in size from those easily seen,
such as rock, gravel and sand, to those not discernible as colloidal materials*
The various size particles Impart their properties to a soil material, and according
to the proportions present, determine to a great degree the physical nature of the
soil. The percentage of the various soil-sized particles present also help deter-
vine the textural name of a soil* By means of a mechanical analysis the particles
of a soil can be separated into groups such as sand, silt or clay* which are
referred to as separates* The sands, if dominant, give properties known as sandy,
while If the soil is made up largely of silt and clay, its plasticity and stickiness
indicate that it is clayey in nature*

Strip-mine soil material is a heterogeneous mixture of rock, slate,
shale, sand and gravel, glacial till and loessal material. The larger the perv*
centage of soil— sized particles (2 mm* or less In diameter) present, the greater
are the opportunities for successful reclamation providing the chemical composition
Is not deleterious. As yet the percentage of fine material, less than 2 mm* In
size, in the various strip-mine soils in Illinois has not been determined other than

~7~

"by observation* This will vary with location and age of the mined land. It has
been estimated that from *K) to 95 percent of the material is finer than 2 mm.

While the amount of material finer than 2 mm. Is important, the per-
centage of the various separates such as sand, silt and clay in this fine
material is also important. Therefore, to help understand the physical properties
of the soil material and to assist in the classification (5) or naming of the
strip-mined soil material, the mechanical analysis of this finer material was
determined. Thirty-nine samples from eight counties have been analyzed. The
hydrometer method was used. The material finer than 2 mm. was separated into the
following sizes: sand, from 2 mm. to .05 mm.; silt, from .05 to .002 mm.; clay,
finer than .002 mm.

The results are listed in Table 3. Fifteen of the 39 samples fell in
the textural group known as silty clay loams. Six of the samples would be classic
fied as silty clays, six as clay loams, five as loams, four as silt loams, two
as clays and one as sandy loam.

The Effect of Neutralizing Toxic Acid Shales With Limestone:

In previous reports reference has been made to the soil samples that had
a very low pH. This condition has been referred to as toxic acid (5) since the
pH has been found to be as low as 2.2 and a pH below 3«8 is considered to be toxic
to all plants. The presence and resultant weathering of sulfur in the various
shale layers is the cause of the acid condition.

Enough material of two of these sulfurous shales was brought into the
greenhouse so that the neutralization of the acidity could be studied. One of
the shales was a blue-gray shale from southern Illinois, probably Coppers Creek
shale. It is quite high in clay. Over 50 percent of the material finer than 2
mm. is less than .002 mm. in size. Thus the physical condition is sticky and

mQ*»

Table 3.— Mechanical Analysis of Strip-Mine Soil Materials Finer Than 2 mm,

Soil separates

Sand

Silt

Clay

Companies

Counties

•05 mm e

•05-.002 mm.

.002 mm.

Textural name

£21,.

pcti

pet*

Delta Collieries

Williamson

21.6

48.7

29.7

Clay loam

15.5

53.3

31.2

Silty clay

loam

15.3

55.1

29.6

Silty clay

loam

Truax-Traer

Jackson

14.4

46.7

38.9

Silty clay

loam

Elkville

18.0

42.0

40.0

Silty clay

18.2

49.0

32.9

Silty clay

loam

16.8

50.4

32.8

Silty clay

loam

15.0

51.2

33.8

Silty clay

loam

U.E. Fidelity

Perry

31.2

42.9

25.9

Loam

28.2

42.0

29.8

Clay loam

Pyramid

Perry

16.0

55.0

29.0

Silty clay

loam

14.5

55.2

30.3

Silty clay

loam

16.1

57.2

26.7

Silt loam

B e Somers

Fulton

28.8

50.2

21.0

Silt loam

20.1

54.1

25.8

Silt loam

15.8

59.8

24.4

Silt loam

40.2

39.8

20.0

Loam

U.S. Cuba Mine

Fulton

20.6

40.5

38.9

Silty clay

loam

16.7

42.1

41 2

Silty clay

10.1

49.0

40.9

Silty clay

10.4

48.3

41.3

Silty clay

T.T. Fiatt

Fulton

11.4

60.3

28.3

Silty clay loam

15.8

46.6

37.6

Silty clay

loam

M.E. Sheffield

Bureau

17.1

40.2

42.7

Silty clay

25 »3

36.0

38.7

Clay loam

•

16.1

44.1

39.8

Silty clay

loam

16.7

39.7

43.6

Clays

19.5

41.1

39.4

Silty clay

loam

•-.

19.6

41.3

39.1

Silty clay

loam

Northern Illinois

Grundy

40.9

36.0

23.1

Loams

Strike-off plot

40.3

39.6

20.1

Loams

Area

56.8

24.8

18.4

Sandy loams

Northern Illinois

Kankakee

13.7

32.8

53.5

Clays

Pit 12

25.1

41.7

33.2

Clay loam

41.6

28.3

30.1

Clay loam

12.2

48.8

39.0

Silty clay

loams*

Harmattan

Vermilion

39.0

33.8

27.2

Clay loam 8

(reddish)

40.8

34.0

25.2

Loams (reddish)

2.7

45.2

52.1

Silty clay (blue-^jray)

♦From Will county

-9~

plastic when wet* After weathering the reaction or pH of this material is about
2,6, There was about 5 percent organic matter in this shale* The other shale
was. a yellow shale from western Illinois known as the Canton shale* It was found
to have ahout 63 percent of clay finer than .002 mm. in size* After weathering
the pfi of the material was about 2 .3* These toxic acid spots appear as wet look~
ing dark areas that are very compact and hard. According to tests the available
phosphorus and potassium content was very high* The organic matter content of the
yellow shale was very low with about 1*25 percent recorded.

Known quantities of these shales were placed in pots in the greenhouse
and limestone was added at various rates* At first 5 plots in duplicate were
treated at the rate of 0, 5. 10, 20 and 40 tons per acre of limestone, respectively,
The pots were watered regularly so that neutralization of the acidity could be
accomplished. The results are presented in Table 4* On the blue shale, 40 tons
of limestone per acre brought the pH up to 7.0* However, on the yellow shale the
40 tons of limestone did not raise the pH up to 7.0 or neutral. Therefore, to 4
pots of the second series more limestone was added. Sixty tons of limestone was
required to bring the pH up to and above neutral.

After the shale material had been neutralized, inoculated alfalfa, red
clover and birdsfoot trefoil were seeded in the plots. The early legume growth
is noted in Table 4. Figure 2 shows the growth of legumes after the limestone
treatment.

Prom this study it appears that toxic acid areas if graded can be
neutralized and legumes will grow on such treated areas. However, because of
the high clay content and poor physical condition and the extremely large amount
of limestone required, reclaiming these toxic acid areas seems impractical. A
more logical approach might be to bury any sulfurous materials in the mining
operation.

-10-

Table 4 C — Effect of Liming on Two Highly Acid Shales

Limestone^
treatment

Soil

reaction

Before

After

Legume

Material

per acre

liming

growth

tons

Blue shale

2.6

2.8

None

Series I

2.6

3.1

ft one

2.6

3.8

None

2.7

5.7

Fair

2.?

7.0

Good

Blue shale

2.7

2.9

None

Series II

2.6

3.2

None

2.6

3.7

None

2.55

6.2

Fair

2.6

7.2

Good

Yellow shale

2.25

2.4

None

Series I

2.25

2.6

None

2.3

3.0

None

2.3

3.7

None

2.3

5.2

Fair

Yellow shale

2.3

2.5

Series

Series II

2.3

3.0

Relimed

2.3

2.8

2.25

3.2

2.3

3.5

Yellow shale

2.3

2.5

None

Series II

3.0

6.3

Good

with more

2.8

6.0

Fair

Ls, added

3.2

7.3

Good

3.5

7.2

Good

Limestone-calcium carbonate chemically pure.

-11~

NO TREATMEI

LIMESTONE 2

IIWESTP'

Acid shale study. The effect of adding limestone to (1) "blue acid shale (upper)
and (2) yellow acid shale (lover) on Boil reaction or pH and on the growth of
legumes, (Fig* 2)

-12-

The Organic Matter Content of Several Strata in the Overburden of
Strip-Mine Lands:

In rather limited areas in western Illinois a muck-type soil material
has "been observed in the upper portion of the overburden. This probably represents
an old lake bed. The strata is quite variable in thickness and extremely localized.
The material is very dark appearing and high in organic matter.

The organic matter content of this muck material from two locations
was determined. In addition a black slatey shale, the blue and yellow acid shales
and a random sample of strip-mine soil material was analyzed for organic matter
content. The determinations were made by Mr. J. Hemwall of the Soil Physics
Laboratory. The percentage of organic matter, the pH and available phosphorus
content are presented in Table 5. The organic matter found in these strata may be
compared with two farm soils rather common in the western Illinois areas, Muscatine
and Clinton silt loams.

Table 5.— Organic Matter Content, Reaction, Available Phosphorus and
Potassium of Several Strata in the Material Over the Coal

Strata

Organic .
matter^/

Available
pfi P 2 0^

Available
K 2

1. Muck (Knox county)

2. Muck (Fnlton county)

3. Black slatey shale

4. Blue shale (acid)

5. Yellow shale (acid)

6. Random sample of strip-
mine 8 oil material in
western Illinois

7. Muscatine silt loas£/

8. Clinton silt loarn^/

£Ct*

lb.

8.12

6.4

7.21

7.0

117

10.99

6.5

200*

5.09

2.6

200*

1.23

2.3

2001-

0.50

7.4

204*

5.5*

6.0

• • o

1.85 - 2.45

6.0

...

lb.
40

40-

307*
300*
300*
192

. •

Based on carbon determination.

Unpublished data in files of Soil Survey division.

~13~

Physically organic matter is important as it improves the physical
conditions and increases the water-holding capacity of soils. Chemically organic
matter is a source of plant food materials and biologically it promotes the activity
of bacteria and other organisms • In most strip-mine soils the organic matter content li
yery low. Where present this muck material greatly improves the physical con-
dition of the soil material and where such areas are graded, cultivated crops
can be produced soon after grading •

Grading of Strip-Mine Land:

The grading of strip-mine land has greatly increased since 1950. The
physical and chemical characteristics of the soil material and the eventual land
use are of prime importance when considering grading • In order to determine the
effects of grading on soil structure and the resulting growth of forage species,
a study on the infiltration rate was conducted. This is the rate at which water
passes downward Into and through the soll

Three physical conditions of the mined land were selected, i.e. (1)
undisturbed ridgee or banks, (2) strike off tops and (3) graded areas (accessible
with farm equipment ) Each of the three types of physical conditions was analyzed
under two phases of vegetation, i.e. (1) well vegetated with legumes and (2) bare
of vegetation. These studies were carred out on the two major spoil types, 4-C
calcareous silty clays and 4-B calcareous loams and silty shales.

On strike-off tops and on graded areas infiltration rate was determined
by means of a 1-foot square sheet iron frame slatted parallel to one edge and
supplied with a trough (1). The frame was sunk into the soil with the slot parallel
to and at the soil surface. A 1-foot square pan perforated with 100 pinholes was
set over the top of the frame, and through this water was poured. As the water
dropped onto the soil, part of it was absorbed and the remainder ran off, passed

through the slot and down the trough, and was caught in a cylinder placed in a
soil pit alongside the absorption frame* Water was applied at the rate of 5
inches per hour. When the rates of runoff remained the same for two or three
consecutive applications, infiltration was considered constant and recorded as
such.

For the remainder of the study, that is the ridges, the cylinder method
was used (?)© Cylinders 8 inches in diameter were forced vertically into the
soil material. Calibrated burettes were then placed into position, as shown in
Figure 3» filled with water and measurements were started. Headings were taken
at 15 minute intervals for 1 hour and at 30~minute intervals for 2 hours • There-
after, readings were taken hourly for 3 hours, making a 7~hour period during which
readings were taken. The infiltration recorded during the sixth and seventh hour
was averaged to get the average infiltration rate per hour.

The data obtained are presented in Table 6 and as is indicated by the
standard deviations, there was wide variation in the infiltration. This was
especially true of the ridges, both bare and vegetated. In general there was
not much difference in the infiltration rate on level and strike-off tops, but
the ridges had a significantly higher rate of infiltration. Vegetation has in-
creased the infiltration under all three physical conditions. The infiltration
rate on the vegetated ridges of the calcareous silty clay, rocky and calcareous
loams, loessal, spoil types was very rapid.

Further studies are being made on graded areas, bare and vegetated with
the cylinder method to determine the variations in the infiltration rate* This
study is incomplete at this time. In one location on a soil material high in
blue clay shale, the infiltration of 10 samples averaged about 0.45 inches per
hour* The variation in the 10 samples ranged from 0.05 inch per hour to 1.60

-15-

^«<-^-- <.■'■• ■■■■ ;m *<;-■■■< Sx?i»«

fc**- - ■ sr: : i: ■■'Mm

Cylinder method of determining the infiltration on the side of "bare ridges.

(Pig. 3)

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~17~

inches per hour. lrfith this great variation noted more recordings are needed to
obtair more accurate information as to infiltration or permeability.

Guides have been established to classify the permeability of agricultural
soils (8). Seven degrees of permeability will express the most significant
variations of the infiltration of most farm soils. The ranges of permeability
and some of the soil types that fall into these ranges are:

Description of
rate of perme-
ability

Very slow
Slow

Moderately slow
Moderate

Moderately rapid

Rapid

Very rapid

Infiltration
in Inches
per hour

Less than .05
0.05 to 0.20
0.20 to 0.80
0.80 to 2.50

2.50 to 5»00
5.00 to 10.00
More than 10.00

Soil Group

Cisne - Wynoose silt loam
Svygert silt loam
Herri ck silt loam
Flanagan and Muscatine

silt loam
Joy-Fort Byron silt loam
O'Neill sandy loam
Hagener loamy sand

Based on this guide the infiltration rate or permeability of the graded
areas, both bare and vegetated, can be classified as moderate. The bare ridges
may be classified as rapid and the vegetated ridges as very rapid.

The effects of grading on the reaction or pH of the soil material and
on the availability of phosphorus and potassium is presented in Table 7. For the
graded area, 238 soil samples from l^f different locations were analyzed while 261
samples from 13 different locations were analyzed for the area not graded. The
effect on reaction or pH was variable. In some cases the pH was lowered by
grading as found on a calcareous loam (loessal) spoil type on the Midwest Hadiant
Corporation property. On three locations the pH was raised. The over-all average
was a lowering of 0.08 of a unit.

With but one exception the available phosphorus was raised as a result
of grading. The average increase was approximately ho pounds. Five of the areas

were raised to 200 pounds plus, so undoubtedly the total was actually raised more

—18**

Table 7.— Effect of Grading on Soil Reaction and Availability

of Phosphorus and Potassium

Location

Humbetf of
samples

Soil type

Forsythe Williamson

Not graded
Graded (level)

11
12

5A
7.1

157
198

150
184

5-C mixed
clays

Truax-Elkville

Not graded
Graded (level)

20
15

6.3
6.0

58
174

155
207

5-C mixed
clays

Pyramid

Not graded .
Graded CS.Oj^'

27
22

7.4
7o8

86
78

123
172

4-C calc.
clays

Midwest Radiant

Not graded
Graded (S.O.)

13
13

7.4
6.4

116
161

107
125

4— E calc.
loams

Little Sister

Not graded
Graded (level)

7.8
7.2

114
204

1*5
211

4-C calc*
silty clay

U.E C Buckheart

Not graded
Graded (level)

20
12

7.7
7.3

94
148

143
128

4-C calc.
silty clay

U.E. Cuba

Not graded
Graded (level)

7.6
7.4

140
204

143
192

4-C calc.
silty clay

Truax-Fiatt

Not graded
Graded (level)

28
15

7.7
7.6

144
200

154
191

4-C calCo
silty clay

Fairviev

Not graded
Graded (lHS.O.)
Graded (2)£(S.0.)

12
12
10

6.3
7.5
7.3

131
141

195

148

153
196

4-B calc.
silty shales

M.E. Rapatee (No. 5)

Not graded
Graded (level)

40
40

7.7
7.3

134
200

121
232

4-B calc.
silty shales

(No.6)

Not graded
Graded (level)

16
12

7.4
7.4

15*
188

196
132

4~C calc.
silty clay

Little John

Not graded
Graded (S.O.)

16
20

7.2
7.2

167
200

152

164

4-C calc.
silty clay

M.E. Sheffield

Not graded
Graded (level)

26
10

7.4
7.3

152
198

285
261

4-L calc.
silty clay

Northern Illinois

Not graded
Graded (S.O.)

5
15

8.0
7.2

151
154

150

179

4-3 calc
silty shales

Overall Average

Not graded
Graded

261

238

7.79
7.70

138.3
177.8

155.5

194.8

Plus or minus
for grading

-0.08

♦ 39.5

♦39.3

-'Strike-off, top of ridge knocked off,

-'Two different locations graded.

-19-

than 40 pounds per acre. The available potassium content was higher after grading
than prior to grading in all but three instances* The average increase was
approximately 40 pounds per acre.

There may he several explanations for these phenomena: (1) the
mechanical "breaking of the clay mineral tends to expose the nutrient material
and make it more available at least temporarily, (2) wetting and drying of freshly
exposed material affects the availability of potassium. Thus over a long period
of time the availability of potassium would be expected to increase even though
no grading was done (3) sulfur has the tendency to make phosphorus more avail**
able. Spreading the sulfur around may tend to accomplish this. The presence
of sulfur also has an effect on the soil reaction or pH, causing the soil to be
more acid. However, the abundance of calcium and magnesium probably neutralizes
the increased acidity.

The growth of forage plants on graded areas is the ultimate means of
measuring the effects of grading. If the forage plants will not grow on graded
areas, all the other measurements have not measured the controlling or limiting
factor. However, from the studies made on forage growth and where the physical
and chemical composition of the soil material is favorable, grading has not re~
tarded the growth of forage. Bather grading has several beneficial effects.
Less seed is required per acre, thicker stands have been obtained, weeds can be
controlled easier, and the excess forage material can be harvested as hay as
well as pasturage.

Determination of the Slope of the Ridges of Mined Land:

The stripping shovel deposits the soil material in the overburden in
the form of long parallel ridges. These ridges may rise 20 feet or more above
the original surface of the ground. The slopes of the ridges are generally

-20-

quite steep. Slope measurements made at a number of locations on newly mined
ridges ranged between 40 and 65 percent with about a 55 percent slope being
typical. Measurements made at one location in 1948 on new ridges averaged 59
percent. Three years later, in 1951 1 the same ridges averaged about 50 percent.
This indicates approximately a 10 percent decrease in the degree of slope as a
result of 3 yeers of weathering and settling of the soil material.

Another report on the settling of the ridges was recorded by Coxton
(3). Long wire stakes were placed in the peaks of newly formed ridges. Measure-
ments indicated that the ridges lowered about 2 feet during the first year,
FORAGE CROP SPECIES ADAPTATION STUDIES:

The number of experimental plots that have been established since 194?
is over 2,500. Seventy-two different species and varieties of forage and culti-
vated crop plants have been used to seed these plots. Fertility studies have
been made on many of these areas.

Species Adaptation:

Excellent results have been obtained with adapted species of legumes
seeded on newly mined lands. By inoculating the legume seeds prior to seeding,
nodules generally are produced on the plant roots, and the legume plant is then
capable of fixing nitrogen from the atmosphere and making it available in the
soil. This is especially important to the growth of grasses on nitrogen and
organic matter deficient strip-mined soils. The only source of nitrogen other
than the legumes is that from rainfall and that made available through soil
microbiological activity.

Legume species that are well adapted include alfalfa, birdsfoot trefoil,
red clover, sweet clover, lespedeza and Eudzu, Birdsfoot trefoil continues to
be well adapted to strip-mined lands (see Fig. 4) This species gives best results

-21-

»**

*■ A

An established stand of birdsfoot trefoil on strip-mined land in Pulton county.

(Fig. 4)

-22-

when seeded as the only legume along with one or two grasses . In its early stages
of growth, it does not compete well with other legumes in a mixture. It is im-
portant to inoculate the birdsfoot trefoil with the Lotus strain of inoculant
for satisfactory results „

The adaptation of several strains of alfalfa varieties has been studied
The nonwinter hardy and nondisease resistant varieties such as Kansas Common and
Oklahoma Common that were seeded in 19^8 have not persisted,, Only a few plots
were seeded in 19^8 with the hardy, disease-resistant varieties, Buffalo and
Ranger. The stands of these varieties are still good.

Eleven varieties or strains of alfalfa were seeded in 1951 on graded
strip— "lined lands to observe winter hardiness, longevity and yielding capacity.
The following varieties are included: (1) Ranger (2) Buffalo (3) Kansas Common
(k) New Mexico Common, Roswell, New Mexico (5) New Mexico Common, Hatch, New Mexico
(6) Grimm (7) Cossack (8) Dakota No. 12 (9) Chilean (10) African (11) Indian
strains from Advance, Arizona.

Winter survival, forage, and seed yields obtained from seven varieties
that had been seeded in 1950 are listed in Table 8. Relatively good winter
survival was noted for the New Mexico Common strains. The survival of these two
strains was better in southern than in western Illinois. Rather poor winter
survival and yields were obtained for the three strains, Chilean, Indian, and
African. Figure 5 shows alfalfa variety plots on a graded area.

Alfalfa was again cut for seed production in 1951« Some yields obtained
are reported in Table 8. Approximately 60 pounds or 1 bushel per acre was the
average yield obtained. This is 4 to 6 times less than in 1950. The 1951 growing
season was more rainy and much shattering was noted. It is believed that the
wet season was largely responsible for the lower yields.

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Alfalfa variety plots on a graded area in Pulton county, 1951* Note the ungraded
spoil ridges in the background. (Jig» 5)

Photo Courtesy of C. Adams

-25-

Leepedeza Is one of the legume species that is very well adapted to
southern Illinois, Good cover and yields are obtained the first year. On many
mined areas in southern Illinois lespedexa has completely covered the ridges as
the result of volunteer seed. This species in an annual that matures in the fall
of the year. The grazing season for lespedeza is in August and September,

As reported earlier, Eudzu has grown remarkably well on mined lands in
southern Illinois, Crowns planted in 19^6 have survived the rather severe winter
of 1950-51. During both the 1950 and 1951 growing seasons, clusters of large
purple flowers were produced. In 1951 seed pods were formed but only a few of
the pods contained viable seed. The Kudzu planted on the mined land has pro**
duced new rootings from the long runners. This has resulted in a more rapid
spreading of the plants. However, it is unlikely that under Illinois conditions
it will yield as much pasturage as the better adapted legumes and grasses. When
used as a pasture it must not be overgrazed, since overgrazing will kill the
plant *

Grasses have become established more slowly on strip— mined soils than
legumes. One reason is the lack of nitrogen in the soil material. Of the grasses
tall fescue, orchard grass and bromegrass become established most rapidly when
seeded, Kentucky bluegrass, timothy, redtop and Reed canary grass become
established more slowly. Other grasses that have been established to varying
degrees on mined lands include tall oatgrass, western wheat grass, crested wheat
grass, Canadian wild rye, switch grass and bluestems. Some of these latter
species will probably not be used intensively in Illinois since the more common
grasses are more available and often more desirable pasture species.

The establishment of a good grass cover takes at least 2 years and often
longer. On many plots that were seeded in the spring of 19^ with a mixture' of

-26-

grasses and legumes, grasses were dominant in 1951* As the nitrogen content
increases with the growing of legumes, the grasses become more prolific and may
crowd out some legumes. Birdsfoot trefoil has withstood the competition from
the grasses better than the rest of the common legumes seeded.

Establishment of Mixtures:

Better pastures usually result where a mixture of grasses and legumes
is seeded than where a single species is seeded. Based on past results the
most satisfactory stands have been obtained by seeding both grasses and legumes
in the spring of the year on newly-mined ridges. During the first several years,
the growth is dominantly legumes with the grasses increasing slowly.

Some yields that have been obtained in 1951 from mixtures seeded at
various locations are listed in Table 9« The best yield obtained was from the
birdsfoot trefoil*^rass mixture seeded in 19^6© Mixtures containing alfalfa
and clovers generally give higher yields on second and third year seedings than
birdsfoot trefoilo

Use of Grain and Seed Crops:

Of the grain crops that have been seeded on mined lands, wheat and
rye have generally given good results. The yield of wheat obtained and the
fertilizer treatment used on a level area in western Illinois are listed in
Table 10. Highest yields, but with the greatest variation, were obtained on the
plots where 60 pounds of nitrogen were top-dressed in the spring. Phosphorus
and potassium as applied in 60-60-60 treatment did not increase the yield ob~
tained over nitrogen alone. The yields obtained when 20-0-0 or 20-60-60 was
applied show that the limiting factor was nitrogen rather than phosphorus and
potassium.

Wheat was seeded on a larger scale on the same property. The amount

~27~

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-28-

Table 10.— Yields of Vheat on Level Area in Western Illinois, 1951
United Electric Coal Company, Bucfcheart Mine

No. of Yield Standard

plots Treatment^/ per acre deviation

3
4

4
4

—'The treatments were applied in the spring, 1951« All plots

were fertilised with 150 pounds of 3-12-12 in the fall at plant-
ing time*

W* „

bu.

Check

4.73

t 1.2

20-0-0

17.95

i3.6

60-0-0

27*35

£ 8.6

60-60-60

20.05

J 2.6

60-0-60

22.2

r 2.7

20-60~60

18.53

2 5.2

Table 11.— Yields of Soybeans on Land Area in Western Illinois, 1951
Little Sister Coal Corporation, St. David, Illinois

No. of Yield Standard

plots Treatment per acre deviation

2
4
4
4
2
4
4
4

bu.

Check

5.5

£ 0.3

40-0^0

14.7

t 1.5

40-40-40

13.8

Z 9o7

0~UQ~kO

8.0

12.8

Manure only

5.3

5 c o5

Manure pins

40-0-0

12.4

±3.5

Manure plus

40-40-40 13.7

♦6.5

Manure plus

0-4o~4o

12.1

S 6.2

~29-

of wheat combined from a 4-e.cre area was 7k bushels or 18.5 bushels per acre*
The yield on a larger area that was seeded very late was much poorer than on
the 4-acre area* It was impossible to get accurate data from this area.

Soybeans were seeded at several locations, both on plot size and field
scale, in 1951* Yields were taken from the plots by pulling up all plants in
a sample area and threshing with a laboratory machine* The yields obtained are
listed in Table 11* Most of the plants on these plots were from 8 to 12 inches
high. This is typical of what had been obtained in other years. Most of these
soybeans could not have been harvested with a combine. Therefore, while it
appears that the yields on fully treated plots may approach 15 or more bushels
per acre, most of the plants were not tall enough to have been harvested* A
larger area seeded by one of the companies was not harvested for this reason.

However, on a muck-type soil material, the growth of soybeans was
quite different. It may be recalled that in 1950, 25 bushels per acre of wheat
was harvested from a muck-type soil material. In 1951 soybeans seeded on a similar
area that had been graded grew very rank. Twenty-three bushels of beans were
seeded on about 12 acres and 436. 5 bushels of soybeans were harvested. This is
an average of 33 »8 bushels per acre. The quality of seed was excellent. This
muck-type soil material on mined lands is very limited but where it is found,
advantage should be taken of its presence* Such areas can be graded and im-
mediately farmed with grain crops such as wheat, soybeans and corn.
DETERMINATION OF FORAGE YIELDS AND QUALITY:

Measurement of Forage Yields:

On seeded areas that have become satisfactorily established, forage
yields have been obtained. This was done by cutting either 2- or 4-foot square
areas of forage. The forage was dried, weighed and converted to yields expressed

as pounds and tons per acre Table 12 gives the yields of forage produced on
strip-mined lands in 1949, 1950 and 195 U

In 1951 yields of alfalfa-orchard grass, alfalfa-bromegrass and alfalfa-
tall fescue were taken at three different locations with several replications at
each location. The average yield of alfalfa and the three grasses was 5»^25
pounds or 2 7 tons per acre. The grasses are increasing at the expense of the
alfalfa which accounts in part for the relatively smaller yields in 1951» The
yields of Mrdsfoot trefoil plus the three grasses were also taken at three locations.
The average yield obtained was 6,169 pounds or 3»1 tons per acre. In general, there
was less grass with the birdsfoot trefoil than with the alfalfa. Legume-grass
mixtures were cut at 4 different locations. The average yield, three cuttings
per season, was 4,948 pounds or 2.5 tons per acre With one exception these
yields were obtained from the sides of undisturbed ridges. The rainy season at
harvest time was responsible for not harvesting the l-<tcre plot in Enox county
on graded area. After another season, larger plots on level areas will be
harvested and yields obtained.

Lespedeza was again cut in southern Illinois on seven different locations.
The average yield obtained was 4,186 pounds or 2,1 tons per acre. A comparison of
yields from undisturbed ridges and leveled areas was made. The average yield
from the graded area was 4,629 pounds or 2,3 tons compared to 3»999 pounds or 2.0
tons per acre on the undisturbed ridges »

Three-year average yields of forage produced on strip**»ined lands in
Illinois from 1949-51 is presented in Table 12. Over the 3"-year period, alfalfa
and birdsfoot trefoil have given the highest yields. These yields, 3«^ tons per
acre for alfalfa-grasses and 3o3 tons per acre for birdsfoot trefoil-grasses, com-
pare very favorably with yields obtained on treated farm lands. Burlison (2)

-31-

Table 12.— 3?hree Tear Average Yield of Forage Produced on Strip-
Mined Lands in Illinois, 1949-51

Mixtures

Year

Yield per acre

lb.

tons

1949
1950
1951

7 624
7 067 '
5 425

3.8
3.5
2,7

1949
1950
1951

6 912
6 811
6 169

3.5
3.4

3ol

1949
1950
1951

3 4?7

4 702
4 948

1.7
2.4

2.5

1949
1950
1951

4 086

3 350

4 186

2.0

1.7
2.1

1950
1951

5 968
5 611

3.0
2.8

Average

Alfalfa and grasses

Average

Birdsfoot trefoil and grasses

Average
Legumes and grasses

Average
Lespedeza and grass

Average

Ladino and grasses
Average

lb,

6 705

6 631

4 376

3 874

5 790

tons

3.4

3.3

2.2

1.9

2.9

Bed clover and grasses

1949 4 195

2.1

-32-

reports some yields that may be expected from several mixtures on Illinois farm
land: (1) fertilised alfalfa-bromegrass, 2*& tons (2) fertilised timothy-clover,
2*5 tons and (3) fertilised lespedeza grass, 2.3 tons of dry forage per acre.

Forage yield data is helpful in determining the carrying capacity of
strip-mine pastures. The following guides can be used to palculate the amount
of pasture that will be needed if the number of livestock to be pastured is known
(2). A 2-year old steer eats about 125-350 pounds of green forage a day (equivalent
to about 25-30 pounds of dry forage). A year old steer eats about 80-100 pounds
of green forage (16 to 20 pounds of dry forage). A mature ewe sheep eats about
25 to 30 pounds of green forage a day (5 to 6 pounds of dry forage).

Using this guide, an acre of alfalfa-grass mixture that would produce
6,700 pounds of dry forage would provide about 223 days of grazing for a 2-year
old steer. The grazing season in Illinois is seldom over 200 days. Also live-
stock does not utilise all the forage produced since some is lost through trampling
and other causes. Therefore, on strip-mined lands where good stands of forages
have been obtained, 2 acres per animal unit over a long pasture season should
provide adequate grazing if properly managed.

Chemical Composition of Forage Species:

The chemical composition of forage growing on strip-mined land in 1950
Is presented in Table 13. Samples of the various forages were collected from the
several spoil types at different locations and at various times of the year.
Post species were sampled at the bloom stage of growth.

This study of chemically analyzing forages growing on strip-mined lands
has been continuous since 1948. Table 14 lists the average composition of the
forage species during a 3-year period, 1948-51. A rather large amount of saicples
of the common species has been analyzed. Four hundred twenty-five legume and 216

-33-

Table 13.-

'Chemical Composition of Forage Crops Grown
on Strip~Kined Land in 1950

No. of

Crop

samples

NS./

Protein

P»/

KA/

Ca»/

Hga/

MnS./

Si&/

pct r

P9t,

P. c t j,

pet,

pct f

pet.

Pet,

E£li

Legumes:

Alfalfa

2.98

18.6

.20

1.81

1.82

.39

....

Sweet clover

1st year

3.32

20.8

.24

1.52

1.86

.69

2nd year

3.08

19.2

.24

1.99

1.57

.34

Bed clover

2.71

16.9

.20

1.83

1.68

.34

Mammoth red clover

2.80

17.5

.25

2.25

1.74

.52

Alslke

3.44

21.5

.32

2.08

1.82

.37

Ladlno

4,02

25.1

.33

2.31

1.58

.28

Birdsfoot trefoil

Italy variety

2.89

18.1

.19

2.05

1.29

.32

New York variety

2.5?

16.1

.21

1.86

1.21

.34

Korean lespedesa

2.37

14.8

.26

.94

1.33

.18

Kobe lespedeza

2.47

15.4

.29

.78

1.21

.23

Sericea lespedeza

1.92

10.7

.18

.84

1.04

.17

Kudzu leaves

3.16

19.6

.24

1.45

2.37

.34

Sanfoin

2.24

14.1

.23

.88

1.11

.30

Winter vetch

4.20

26.2

.31

2.45

1.13

,29

• . • •

Grasses - hay stage:

Orchard grass

1.55

9.7

.25

2.45

.34

.18

.0132

1.80

Tall fescue

1.57

9.8

.27

2.26

.33

.18

.0099

2.93

Bromegrass

1.73

10.8

.23

2,23

.33

.11

.0076

l.*9

Kentucky bluegrase

1.78

11.1

.23

1.62

.39

.12

.0071

2.28

Red top

1.16

7.3

.23

1.63

.39

.13

.02*j4

2.98

Timothy

1.38

8.6

.22

1.50

.30

.10

.0075

1.38

Heed canary grass

2.09

13.1

.27

2.72

.34

.13

. . • .

Tall oatgrass

1.45

9.1

.26

2.48

.29

.09

1.08

Canadian wild rye

1.80

11.2

.16

1.42

.52

...

....

Bhodea grass

1.20

7.5

.13

1.05

.30

.05

4.85

Side-oat grama

1.12

7.0

.07

.90

.39

.11

3.55

Western wheat grass

1.19

7.4

.19

1.37

.30

.10

. . » *

Big blue stem

.78

4.9

.17

.91

.30

.10

a . • »

Little bluestem

.81

5.1

.20

.67

.35

.13

. • . •

Indian grass

.62

3.9

.14

,76

.39

.13

. . • •

Switch grass

.94

5.9

.22

.61

.39

.23

• . » •

^N ~

N - nitrogen; P ~ phosphorus; K
Mn - manganese; Si - silica.

■«• potassium; Ca •• calcium; Mg «- magnesium

~34~

Table 14. -"Average Chemical Composition of Forage Crops Grown On
Strip-Mined Land Over a Period of Years, 1946-51

No.

Species samples

Protein

pet.

PCt A

pet.

PC**

pet,

P^t

££lt

pct t

Legumes:

Alfalfa

2.92

18.3

.21

1.69

1.68

.42

.0044

.057

Red clover

2.65

16.6

.19

1.75

1.55

.42

.0087

Ladino

3.38

21.1

.27

1.98

1.48

.45

.0016

Alsike

2.91

18.2

.24

2.10

1.30

.54

.0144

Birdsfoot trefoil

2.70

16.9

.21

1.84

1.41

.52

.0076

Lespedeza

2.17

13.6

.23

1.00

1.09

.26

.0085

Sweet clover, 1st year

3.24

20.3

.23

1.43

1.53

.59

.0066

Sweet clover, bloom

2nd year

2.99

18.7

.23

1.77

1„44

.44

.0075

Mammoth red clover

2.80

17.5

.20

1.87

1.51

.53

Crimson clover

2.73

17.1

.16

1.52

2.14

.36

White clover

3.10

19.2

.24

.97

1.75

.55

Hubam

2.98

18.6

.28

1.26

1.38

.56

Yellow trefoil

2.98

18.6

.23

1.96

1.66

.54

Kobe lespedeza

2.05

12.8

.21

.90

1.03

.26

Sericea lespedeza

1.85

11.6

.17

.82

.93

.24

Xudzu leaves

2.70

16.9

.33

2.03

1.49

.39

t • • »

Austrian winter pea

3.88

24.3

.25

2.12

1.30

.30

.0010

Button clover

2.16

13.5

.22

1.05

1.24

.56

.0175

Lappacea

1.42

8.9

.18

.85

1.82

.60

.0360

Winter vetch

4.20

26.2

.31

2.45

1.13

.29

....

Sanfoin

2.42

14.1

.23

1.88

1.11

.30

....

Crown vetch

• • • •

■ • • •

.15

1.63

1.25

.47

. . • .

Grasses:

Kentucky bluegrass

1.68

10.5

.23

1,41

.34

.20

.0093

1.19

Orchard grass

1.67

10.4

.26

2.60

.42

.28

,0244

2.15

Alta fescue

1.59

9.9

.26

2.10

.41

.27

.0200

2.32

Bromegraes

1.71

10.7

.22

2.28

.44

.30

.0154

1.89

Timothy

1.60

10.0

.23

1.95

.35

.18

.0092

1.00

Redtop

1.26

7.9

.19

1.55

.42

.22

.0160

2.08

Tall oatgrass

1.29

8.1

.17

2.30

.27

.17

.0103

2.93

Reed canary grass

2.14

13.4

.19

2.37

.50

.26

. • • .

• • • •

Chewings fescue

2.06

6.6

.11

1.48

.36

.11

. • » •

• • • •

Meadow foxtail

1.66

10.4

.18

2.40

.38

.18

....

mm * •

Switch grass

.88

5.5

.17

.58

.55

.29

. . & .

• e • •

Indian grass

.66

4.1

.10

.76

.38

.18

....

• • •

Little bluestem

.71

4.4

.17

.74

.33

.13

....

9 » *

Big bluestem

.69

4.3

.16

.77

.30

.12

....

• • • •

Canada wild rye

1.57

9.8

.19

i.21

.58

.18

....

• • • •

Michels grass

1.84

11.5

.24

....

.36

.15

.0065

1.19

Side-oat grama

1.01

6.3

.07

.85

.41

.15

....

. . • .

Rhodes grass

1.36

8.5

.18

1.05

.41

.13

....

Ryegrass

1.69

10.6

.20

1.88

.53

.24

....

Western wheat grass

1.34

8.4

.19

1.31

.40

.20

. • . .

....

Love grass

1.22

7.6

.12

.83

.24

.11

....

~35~

grass samples hare been analysed during the 3 year period. Because of the large
number of samples and the spread over 3 years of the sampling date, the values
are considered to be reliable.

However, in studying the chemical composition of plants, it is well to
keep in mind the influencing factors that may cause variations. Composition may
vary with species, st^ge of growth, climatic conditions, productivity and mineral
content of the soil. Internal or external injuries by insects, diseases, rodents,
animals or weather may also affect the composition of vegetation.

In discussing the comparisons of the chemical composition of pasture plants,
Fuelleman (4) states that chemical analyses of forages are valuable as they are an
aid in the interpretation of pasture experimental results as well as an indication
of apparent palatabillty. They serve as a basis for comparison of the nutritive
value of forages. The quantity of protein does not necessarily indicate its
quality or digestibility; however, it is true that most high protein forages are
apparently more palatable and nutritious than those containing less protein.
Similarly, the percentage of phosphorus and calcium are indicators of nutritive
value, but it does not mean that they are entirely available to the animal.

Puelleman (4) further states that the percentages of nutrients in a
sample of forage cut on any given date may vary considerably in comparable samples
of the same species. This does not imply errors in analysis, in sampling or
differences due to soil heterogenity. It is reasonable to assume that the forage
itself may be undergoing changes brought about by the synthesis or desynthesi*
of material.

The nitrogen and protein content of the forage as shown in Table 14
is high. This is especially true of the grasses that must depend mainly on the
legumes for their nitrogen. The grasses were sampled at the prebloom to early

-36-

bloom stage of growth.

The phosphorus content of strip-mine forage when compared with the
phosphorus content of that found under Illinois farm conditions as reported in
Illinois Agricultural Experiment Station Bulletin 518 is very high. 4.s discussed
earlier some have theorized that the phosphorus in the soil is not readily avail-
able at the high pH levels as shown by the soil tests. If this were true, poor
plant growth and probably lower phosphorus content of the forages grown on mined
lands would result. The reverse is true. There seems to be a good correlation
between the very high available phosphorus content as shown by the soil tests and
the high phosphorus content of the forages*

Th« calcium, potassium and magnesium content of the strip-mine forages
compare very favorably with that grown on Illinois farms. Based on the chemical
composition as shown, the quality of the forage species growing of strip-mined,
lands is excellent*

Botanical Composition:

A survey of the botanical composition of an established pasture on
mined lands was made for a J-ye&r period. This area was first seeded in 1938
with sweet clover, Grasses and other legumes were seeded later c An excellent
stand of forage has been secured* The measurements were made by using a point
quadrate. Table 15 shows the frequency that several species contributed to the
pasture sward and the percent of bare area.

During the 3 years grasses made up from 65 to 75 percent, the legumes
from 20 to 25 percent and weeds from 5 to 10 percent of the species represented.
?roo 6 to 12 percent of the area was bare. Kentucky bluegrass was the dominant
specie. Bromegrass, sweet clover and alsike clover were the next most abundant
species.

-37-

Table 15 .—Frequency That Several Species Were Represented in the Sward
and the Bare Area in the Lot 1 Pasture in 1948-49-51

1946

1949

1951

Species

April 29

Oct. 7

April 2

Nov. 11

May 4

Oct. 31

pet,

pct t

pet,

pct t

pet,

Grasses :

61.0

66.0

68.8

97.8

71.8

77.0

Kentucky bluegras
Redtop
Timothy
Bromegrass
Wild grasses

s 36.0
7.0
7.0
9.0
2.0

41.0
7.0
3.0

10.0

5.0

50.7
1.6
3.3
6.3
6.9

65.2
4.1
0.8

15.9

11.8

<*6.7
1.5
3.0

14.1

6.5

43.6

2.8

0.5

22.1

5.8

Orchard grass

Legume 8 :

23.0

Alfalfa

1.0

Sweet clover

11.0

Red clover

6,0

Alslke

4.0

White clover or

Ladino

1.0

Weeds:

Bare:

8.0
8.0

28.0

0.5

18.0

2.0

7.0

0.5
6.0
6.0

24.4

12.1

2.2

9.5

0.6
6.8
8.3

1.1

trace

1.1

12.6

21,6

trace

6.6
5.9

2.2

15.3

2.5

1.8

1.1

14.1

4.0

1.1

1.6

trace

3.9

4.6

3.3

7.7
9.0

The use of legumes together with the grasses in strip-mined pasture
reclamation is very important. Legumes in general are known to have a high
content of protein and minerals and, therefore, are valuable as a livestock feed.
The legumes are also capable of fixing nitrogen from the air and making it avail-
able in the soil. This is especially important on nitrogen and organic matter
deficient strip-mined soils. That the grasses can and do utilize the nitrogen
is evident by the growth of grasses obtained and the relatively high protein
content of the grasses as shown in Table 14.

As the legumes decrease from the pasture sward due to grazing of live-
stock and other causes, it is possible to reseed them without extra soil preparation.
Livestock hoof tracks provide enough exposed soil material on the ridges that the

-36-

legume seeds have a chance to grow. Success has been obtained by seeding alfalfa,
sweet clover, Ladino and alsike under such conditions*

Animal Gains as a Method of Measuring Yield and Quality:

During the preceding 3 years, 19^-1950, steers were the livestock
used to study the value of forage produced on mined lands. Sheep can and are
being used to graze the mined lands at several locations, (see Figure 6). There-
fore, it was thought desirable to get some information regarding the possible gains
and the effect on the vegetation by grazing with sheep. In 1951 a flock of ewes
and lambs was used to study the value of forage produced on mined lands .

The strip-mine pasture that was used for this grazing experiment is
located in Pulton county near Fiatt, Illinois, and is part of the Deep 7alley
Farm 1 *, land. An area of approximately 12 acres was selected and divided into 2
nearly equal-sized fields so that rotational grazing could be practiced. The
area had been seeded in 19^S and 19^9 with a mixture of sweet clover, alfalfa,
alsike, ^dino clover,, bromegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue and timothy,,
A good cover of grasses and legumes had been obtained 8 Sheep, cattle, and hogs
had grazed the area prior to the 1951 grazing season.

Twenty-six ewes and 29 lambs were processed, weighed and marked and
put on one of the pastures on May 18, 1951* The flock was weighed individually
on June 20, «. T uly 26 and September 10, 1951 • The results obtained during the
116-day grazing period and the weights on the several dates are presented in
Tables 16 and 17. The data show that the lambs made an average daily gain of
0.?9 pounds and the ewes an average daily gain of 0.07 pounds. The gains made
by the lambs varied from a low of 0.16 pounds per day to a high of 0.37 pounds
per day. One lamb was sick at the last weighing and was not included in this
average.

~39~

Sheep grazing strip-mine pasture lands in Fulton county, 1951* (*i€» 6)

-•40-

Table 16. — Data Giving Individual Weights of Lambs During

the Grazing Season, 1951

Gain

Total

May

June

or loss

July

or loss

Sept.

or loss

gain

Number

33 days

36 days
lb.

10
lb.

46 days
lb.

or loss

lb.

101

104

21*/

-19

108

110

Ave, 28

40.18

54.79

14.54

67o54

12.62

73.86

6.32

33.68

Ave. daily

gain

0.44

0.35

0.14

0.29

a/
' Sick at last weighing, not included in average.

-41-

Table 17.— Data Giving Individual Weights of Ewes During

the Grazing Season, 1951

Gain

Total

May

June

or loss

July

or loss

Sept.

or loss

gain

Number

33 days

36 days

46 days

or loss

lb.

lbj

lb.

121

134

142

»>

107

105

- 2

102

- 3

14?

148

156

155

- 1

123

125

127

138

106

107

111

113

136

141

151

152

118

110

115

108

- 7

111

- 1

- 7

- 1

- 3

- 4

- 6

103

108

115

128

100

102

101

~ 1

10 .
-31^

140

149

156

125

-15

~ 2

125

131

129

- 2

130

118

114

~ 4

129

128

~ 1

103

115

110

- 5

110

118

126

110

-16

121

124

130

133

119

125

119

- 6

134

1>0

108

119

118

- 1

121

104

127

126

- 1

134

132

- 2

102

112

118

Ave. 26

107.73

111.69

3.96

113.85

2.16

116.38

2.53

8.27

Ave. daily

gain

0.12

.07

.06

.07

Eurt

~42~

The flock remained on the first pasture from May 18 to June 20, a total
of 33 days. During that period the 29 lambs gained a total of 421 pounds or an
average daily gain of 0.44 pounds. The 26 ewes made a net gain of 103 pounds for
an average daily gain of 0.12 pounds. A total of 524 pounds was produced from
about 6 acres.

The second pasture was grazed from June 20 to July 26, a total of 36
days. The forage was quite mature but abundant. The lambs gained a total of 366
pounds and the ewes a net of 61 pounds. A total of 42? pounds was produced from
the second 6-acre pasture a

Because of the need for these two pasture areas by the owner , the sheep
were moved from July 26 to September 10 to another pasture area consisting of
second-year sweet clover, bromegrass and bluegrass. It was, therefore, impossible
to rotate the grazing area as planned. Because of these and other uncontrollable
circumstances, it was thought desirable to end the experiment on September 10«

Information on the gains made by the livestock is valuable in determining
the value of strip-mined pasture lands. The first year's experiment with sheep
revealed many problems, which can be guarded against in future studies. It is
hoped that the sheep grazing experiment can be repeated and expanded in 1952.

In 1951 it was again possible to obtain information as to the gains made
by several lots of cattle grazing on strip-mined lands. One of these was a herd
of cattle owned by Mr. Byron Somers of Fulton county. During the 1951 grazing
season, 271 head of steers grazed the 500-c.cre strip-mined pasture range. One
hundred twelve head were rotated on about 180 acres, which were divided into two
pastures. The rest of the herd had continued access to the remaining pasture
acreage. Two animals from this herd died of bloat and two were killed by lightning©

There were three different groups of steers in this herd. One hundred

twelve head were 2 year olds. These steers grazed the 180 acres of rotated pasture.
They weighed an average of 858 pounds per head when turned on pasture on April
26. On September 20 they weighed 1021 pounds, gaining an average of 163 pounds
during the 14? days for an average daily gain of 1.12 pounds. These 112 head
produced 18,256 pounds of beef in the 147 -day grazing period. They were then
fed ground corn and protein supplement while grazing the strip-mined pastures
until about December 1, 1951*

Another lot of 95 yearling steers weighed 524 pounds per head when
turned on pasture on April 26. They weighed an average of 794 pounds per head
when taken off the pasture on November 17 after a 204-day grazing season. They
had gained 270 pounds each for an average daily gain of 1.32 pounds per head.
These 95 head had produced 25*650 pounds of beef in 204 days.

The third lot consisted of 64 head of short yearlings purchased in
August. They weighed 513 pounds per head and were in good flesh. On November 17
after a 103~day grazing period, they weighed 573 pounds. They had gained 60
pounds each for an average daily gain of .58 pounds per head. These 64 head
produced 3»840 pounds of beef in 103 days.

This herd of 271 head produced a total of 47,746 pounds of beef. This
production came from about 500 acres or about 96 pounds of beef per acre. In
addition some credit must be given to the pasture during the time the 112 steers
were on feed and still grazed the pasture. The pastures could have been stocked
heavier as there was a goodly amount of forage that was not utilized. Therefore,
at least 100 pounds of beef were produced per acre from the 500-c-cre pasture
range.

During the 1951 grazing season, the Meadowlark Harms, Inc., pastured
a total of 219 head of yearling steers and heifers on strip-mine pastures in

Fulton county. The forage was sweet clover, alfalfa, birdsfoot trefoil, brome-
grass and bluegrass. These cattle made an averege daily gain of 1,6 pounds during
a 128-day grazing period. Fifteen of the top animals selected from this herd
placed fourth in the Short Feed Special Carlot Class at the 1951 International
Livestock show in Chicago.

The Midwest Radiant Corporation property in St* Clair county is starting
a livestock program. In 1951 «• herd of 22 head of white-faced steers grazed a
rather new pasture for 15? days. They gained an average of 201 pounds per head
for an average daily gain of 1,28 pounds,

A farmer, Mr. w # Shafer of Maquon, Illinois, pastured 10 head of steers
on strip-mine pastures in 1951» These steers were purchased in the fall of 1950
weighing 516 pounds. They were wintered on clover hay and a small amount of oats.
They were turned on the pasture on May 3» 1951 weighing an average of 682 pounds
per head. On October 18, 1951i after a 168-day grazing period, the steers weighed
an average of 904 pounds per head making an average daily gain of 1,32 pounds per
head,
ECONOMIC INTERPRETATIONS:

Methods, Costs and Feasibility of Forage Species Establishment:

The methods of seeding the mined areas in the past have been hand seeding,
tractor mounted power seeder and air seeding by airplane and helicopter. The
length of time required to seed the areas by any method depends to a great extent
upon the species seeded. The seed of some of the grass species is very light in
weight and bulky and requires more time to seed.

Under good conditions the time required to seed an acre by hand has been
from 1 to 1^ hours. Including all labor and supervisory time, it required about
25 minutes per acre to seed a prepared area by tractor seeder. In contrast, from

75 to 125 acres per hour can be seeded by the air method. Whatever method is
used, complete and thorough application of a good mixture of seed on the whole
area is of prime importance.

The total cost per acre varies greatly depending on the kind of seed
or mixture used, the seeding rate per acre as well as the lebor and type of equip**
ment used. During the 1951 season, the total costs ranged between $10 and $15
per acre.

Accessibility and Management After Establishment:

There are several degrees to which a mined area may be prepared in
developing it for agricultural use. If the area is to be developed for pasture,
accessibility throughout is of prime importance. Some have found it expedient
to provide access roadways only. The making of roadways has varied to a great
degree. Usually too few roadways are constructed rather than too many.

Still others have prepared the area by knocking off the tops of all
ridges to a width of from 12 to 16 feet with a bulldozer » The advantages of this
method of preparation are that the area is readily accessible to seed either by
hand or with tractor mounted seeders, roadways are already made, the management
and control of livestock are made easier, and the scenery or sky line is improved.

The highest degree of preparation is to grade the complete area so that
farm equipment can be driven over the whole area. The physical texture of the
soil material, the soil reaction and nutrient content, and the eventual land use
are of prime importance when considering grading. In several areas of Illinois,
the high percentage of loess and till material, the low percentage of rock, the
chemical composition of the soil material and the methods of mining appear to make
grading feasible.

There are several small areas in the mined lands in Pulton and Knox

-k6-

counties that hare a strata of muck-type material of considerable thickness in
the overburden. This material is very high in organic matter content averaging
between 7 and 8 percent. Where this material is present and the area is graded,
a very loose friable soil condition exists. Such graded areas can immediately be
used to produce tillable crops* Soybeans and wheat seeded on such areas have
yielded 33 and 25 bushels per acre, respectively.

It is important in the maintenance of a good pasture area to be able
to control volunteer trees, shrubs and other forms of undesirable growth. On
common pasture lands, clipping with a mower is the means of controlling this
undesirable vegetation. On strip-mined lands left in ridges, the use of the mower
is impossible.

The degree to which volunteer trees, shrubs, etc., are a problem on
these lands is often due to early management of the area. If the area is not
developed and utilized before volunteer and undesirable growth becomes established,
the productive capacity of the pasture is reduced. To restore the productive
capacity this growth must be removed. The slow expensive method of hand cutting
the undesirable species in many cases does not destroy them permanently since
many broadleaved species will sprout vigorously and persistently. However, during
the past several years chemicals have been used to control woody growth.

Many of the older strip-mined areas in Illinois are dotted with relatively
large volunteer trees which are detrimental to the development and production of
good pastures (see Figure 7). The study of methods of killing this growth by the
use of chemicals that are nonpoisonous to, livestock was started on an experimental
basis on strip-mine pastures in the late summer, 1951« The study plots are located
in Pulton county on the Byron Somers strip-mine pasture area. Seven and one-half
acres of the oldest and most heavily wooded pasture area were treated.

-47-

Volunteer tree and other undesirable species such as is shown are detrimental to
the development and production of good pastures. (Jig. 7)

Photo Courtesy of C. Adams

•Jx8<~.

EXPERIMENT A:

This experiment was designed to study eight different methods of killing
trees. Eight one-half acre plots were established. The several herbicides used
were (1) Ammate (ammonium sulfate), (2) Esteron 2,4,5-T (2,4,5 trichlorophenoxyacetic
acid, propylene glycol butyl ether ester, 66 percent or 4 pounds per gallon), (3)
2,k~D (jsopropyl ester of 2,4 dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, 44 percent or 3.3 pounds
per gallon) and (4) brushkiller (2,4 dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, 2 pounds acid per
gallon and 2,4,5 trichlorophenoxyacetic acid propylene glycol butyl ether ester,
2 pounds acid per gallon). The treatments are as follows: Plot 1 - check plot —
girdling as a means of killing the trees; plot 2 - frill and apply Ammate spray
(1 pound Ammate per 1 gallon water); plot 3 - notch or cup and apply Ammate crystals
into the cup, 1.2 pounds crystals per acre; plot 4 - frill and apply 2,4,5-T Esteron
spray (1 part material per 24 parts diesel oil); plot 5 - basal spray of Esteron
2,4,5-T (1 part Esteron to 24 parts diesel oil); r l °t 6 - frill and apply 2,4-rD
spray (1 part material to 16 parts diesel oil); plot ? - frill and apply mixture
of 2,4,5-T and 2,4-D (brushkiller) spray (1 part material to 16 parts diesel oil);
plot 8 - basal spray of 2,4,5-T and 2,4-D mixture (brushkiller) spray (1 part
material to 16 parts diesel oil)* The applications are at rather heavy rates but
are the recommendations of the manufacturer of the herbicides.

The frilling consisted of making a single line of ax cuts around the
tree trunks. The notching or cupping consisted of taking out chips of the bark
at approximately 6-inch spacing around the tree. All frills, notches and girdle
work was at a point approximately 30 inches above the ground. The basal spray
was applied from the ground line up to about 24 inches. The plot layout for
Experiment A is shown in Figure 8.

On these plots the number of trees by species and diameter class, the

-49-

Figure 6,— Experiment A « Plot Layout for Studying Several Chemicals As a
Means of Killing Volunteer Trees on Strip-Mine Pasture Lends

Plot 2
1 gallon solution for
60 trees

Plot 7
1 gallon solution for
50 trees

Plot 4
1 gallon material for
62 trees

Plot 1
Girdle

Plot 5
3,4 gallons on 71
trees

Plot 8
3^ gallons on 86
plus 13 trees

Plot 6

1 gallon solution on

51 trees

Plot 3

6 pounds crystals on

80 trees

Plot size jg acre

104.35 feet x 208. ?1 feel

8 plots

Plot

3
4

5
6

7
8

Treatment

Girdle

Prill and Ammate spray

Notch or cup and Ammate crystals

Frill and 2,4,5-T spray

Sasal spray or 2,4,5-T
Frill and 2,4^D spray
Frill end brush killer spray
Basal spray of "brush killer

Trees per
plot (J A.)

Average
Date of application - July 24-26, 1951

Labor
■MT5T"

105

65«75 per \ A. or

132 trees per A.

•50-

quantities of material used and the actual time required in applying the materials
were recorded. This data provides a "basis for calculation of labor and materiel
costs per acre as veil as the ultimate determination of effectiveness of the
several treatments. The species and number of trees found on the eight plots
are shown in composite form in Table 18. On the 4 acres there were 526 trees of
which 68 percent or 357 were cottonwood, with over one-half of the cottonwood
falling in the 6, 8 and 10-inch classes. The average diameter was 8.42 inches.
Elm, willow and sycamore were next mo3t numerous in the order listed. These were
smaller trees, however, with the majority of the trees in the 2 and 4-inch classes.
Upon inspection of these plots on August 3t 1951* it was noted that many
of the tree leaves had turned completely brown on the plots where 2,4,5-T and
2,4-J) - 2,4,5-T mixture had been used, both on frilled and basal spray treatments o
Because of this surprising and drastic apparent tilling effect, it was decided to
study the effect of lower concentration of these materials as shown in Experiment 3,
Final results of these treatments, however, cannot be made until the growing season

of 1952.
Table 18.

■Composite Table Listing the Species and Diameter of Trees Pound
in Experiment A (Tree Killing Plots, ^-Acre Plots)

Average

Total

diameter

8
in.

10
in,

12
in.

14
in.

16
in.

r
pet.

Lumber

in.

Cottonwood

8,42

357

Elm

3.48

Sycamore

4,75

Box Elder

5.12

Ml low

2.36

Crataegus

(Hawthorn)

2.0

trace

j 2

Wild Plum

2,0

tr^e*

i 2

~51~

EXPERIMENT B:

Early observations with the chemicals as reported in Experiment A re-
vealed rather rapid apparent killing effects at the concentrations recommended by
the manufacturer. This experiment was designed to study the effect of lower con-
centrations of 2,4,5-T and 2,4-D - 2,4,5-1' mixture in oil and in water. Fourteen
one-fourth acre plots were established near the Experiment A area. The plot
design used in this study is shown in Figure 9»

On these plots the number of trees by species and diameter class was

recorded. The amount of material applied to the number of trees was also noted.

The species and number of trees found on the 14 plots are shown in composite form

in Table 19. In this experiment a total of 403 trees were treated. Box elder

and cottonwood were irost numerous with 39 percent of the trees being box elder

and 37 percent being cottonwood. The cottonwood was the largest tree with over

one-half falling in the 6, 8 and 10-inch classes. About 80 percent of the box

elder were in the 4, 6 and 8-inch classes.

Table 19«— Composite Table of 14 Plants Listing the Species and Diameter

of Trees Found in Experiment B

Total

in.

Cottonwood

149

Box Elder

158

Elm

Willow

Crataegos

Sycamore

Ash

Peach

1
403

^52~

Figure 9.— Experiment B - Variations in Concentration and Application of
2,4~D, 2,4,5~T and 2, 4-1) - 2,4,5-T Mixtures in the Killing of
Volunteer Trees Growing on Established Strip-Mine Pastures

104.35

Plot 14

Plot 1

Plot 13

Plot 2

Plot 12

Plot 3

Plot 11

Plot 4

Plot 10

Plot 5

Plot 9

*
Plot 6

Plot 8

Plot 7

Plot size - j acre
(104.35 feet x 104.35 feet)
14 plots

T reatment and concentration

Prill and spray 2,4,5-T and water
Plot 1 ratio - 1:96

2 1:72

3 1:48

4 1:24

Prill and spray 2,4,5-T and diesel oil
Plot 5 ratio - 1:96

6 1:72

7 1:48

Basal spray 2,4,5»-T and diesel oil
Plot 8 ratio - 1:60
9 1:48

10 1:36

Basal spray brush killer and diesel oil
Plot 11 ratio - 1:60

12 1:48

13 1:36

Basal spray 2,4—D and diesel o
Plot 14 ratio - 1:48

Total number of trees

oil

Average

28.5 x 4 * 114 trees per acre

No. of trees

30
32
38
23

20
25
25

37
26

28
25
31

399
28.5

August 8-9, 1951

-53-

A tabulation of all the treatments used, the amount of material applied,
the labor required and the total cost of the several chemicals is presented in
Table 20. The total cost ranged from $2.58 to $4.86 per acre. The most expensive
treatment was a mixture of 2,4— D - 2,4,5-T applied as a basal spray in diesel oil
at a 1:16 concentration. The total cost was $4.86 per acre. On the basis of
this study the labor required to apply the spray as a basal application was about
lj hours per acre while the girdling of the trees required about 3i hours per acre.
While the results of the treatments will not be known until the next growing season,
it appears from this study and recommendations made by the Illinois Agricultural
Experiment Station (6) that a mixture of 2,4-D and 2,4,5-T in a mixture of oil
and water applied as a basal spray will be most practical from the labor end total
cost standpoint.

Utilization of Strip-Mined Lands:

The utilization of a strip-mined area is dependent upon several factors.
From rough pasture lands the returns are dependent upon the gains made by the price
received for the livestock that graze the area. Such areas can be utilized by
cattle, sheep and hogs. Graded or leveled areas may be used for grain and hay
production as well as grazing. Therefore, the returns from graded areas would be
affected by the yield and price received for the grain and hay as veil as the
price of the livestock.

toore mined acres are being used each year. According to the Illinois
Coal Strippers Association at the present time, January 195? » about 54,000 acres
have been strip-mined in Illinois. Approximately 35»000 acres or 64 percent have
had some reclamation work done on them. Twelve thousand acres have been reforested
with 12,000,000 trees and another 2,500 acres have been covered by volunteer tree
growth. Sixteen thousand acres h«ve been seeded to grasses and legumes for pasture

d
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-55-

development. Of this 16,000 acres, 11,000 acres are now "being actively used for
pasture, hay production, small grains or orchards. Thirty-five different farm
units are utilizing the 11,000 acres
DISSEMINATION OF INFORMATION:

The unbiased dissemination of facts obtained in this study is a phase
that deserves considerable effort. Education is probably the best method of
getting a good reclamation program. The educational job in this case 5s twofold.
First the strip-mine operators and second the public need to be convinced of the
potential value of the stripped-over lands and that the raw land is not necessarily
forever a wasteland.

Information concerning the findings of the strip-mine project has been
disseminated through two methods. Copies of the annual report have been sent to
various libraries, ferm management companies and individuals who have expressed
interest. It is of interest to note that copies have been sent to Department of
Agriculture libraries in Lngland and Canada as well as the Library of Congress in
Washington and to several state libraries.

During the past year the strip-mine reclamation project has been discussed
over Radio Station WILL. Two 10 to 15 minute discussions were broadcast to the
listeners of the University radio programs*

-56-

Bibliography

1, Auten, J. T. Black: locust, pines and sassafras as "builders of forest soils.

Central States Forest Experiment Station Technical Note No. 32. 19^1.

2. Eurlison, W. L. Long-season pastures for Illinois. Illinois Agricultural

Experiment Station Circular 682. June 1951*

3» Croxton, W, C Revegetation of Illinois coal stripped lands. Ecology,
Vol. IX, No. 2. 1928.

4. Fuelleman, R. F. and Burlison, W. L A comparison of yields and composition

of some Illinois pasture plants. Journal of American Society of Agronomy,
Vol. 32:24>255. 19^0.

5. Limstrom, G. A. Extent, character and forestation possibilities of land

stripped for coal in the Central States. Central States Forest Experiment
Station Technical Paper 109. 19^8.

6. Slife, F. W., Hackleman, J. C« and Scott, V. 0. Weed end brush control

recommendations for 1952. Illinois Agricultural Experiment Station Mimeo.
AG1526.

7. Stauffer, R. S. Infiltration capacity of some Illinois soils. Journal of

American Society of Agronomy 30:^9>-500. 1938.

8. Guide for soil conservation surveys. USDA Soil Conservation Service. 1948.

9. Hunger signs in crops. A Symposium - American Society of Agronomy and the

National Fertilizer Association, Washington, P. C. 1951 •

-57-

Outline

I. Soil investigations

A. Mechanical analysis

B. Soil analysis

(1) Boron added

C. Organic matter of materials

D. Adding limestone to acid stuff

E. Total content of sulfur, etc.

F. Grading of strips-mine land

(1) Table of availability

(2) Infiltration

(3) Slope measurement

G. Microbiological studies
II, Forage species studies

A, Species adaptation - aggressiveness of grass

(1) Alfalfa varieties studies

B Mixtures ** kinds and effect as shown by botanical analysis
C. Use of grain and seed crops

(1) Wheat

(2) Soybeans

III. Determination of forage yields and quality

A. Forage yields

3. Chemical composition

C. Animal gains

(1) Sheep project

(2) Other cattle projects

IV. Economic interpretation

A. Methods, cost and feasibility of species adaptation

B. Accessibility and management after establishment

(1) Tree killing study

C. Utilization of mined land
V. Dissemination of information

AFG:mlm
2~29~52

THE POTENTIALITIES OF REVEGETATING AND UTILIZING
AGRONOMIC SPECIES ON STRIP MINED AREAS

IN ILLINOIS

A PROGRESS REPORT
COVERING THE SIXTH YEAR OF WORK ON A COOPERATIVE INVESTIGATION

CONDUCTED BY
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, AGRICULTURAL EXPERIMENT STATION

AND
ILLINOIS COAL STRIPPERS ASSOCIATION

NOTE

—

THE LIBRARY OF THE

JUN 3 1953

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS

Telephone CEntral 6-7044

ILLINOIS COAL STRIPPERS ASSOCIATION

307 NORTH MICHIGAN AVENUE
CHICAGO 1, ILLINOIS

WILLIAM H. COOKE A. J. CHRISTIANSEN

PRESIDENT SECRETARY-TREABURER

CARL T. HAYDEN FOREWORD

VICE PRESIDENT

To Members of Illinois Coal Strippers Association

Gentlemen:

On February 1, 19U7* Illinois Coal Strippers Association
entered into an agreement with the Agricultural Experiment Station,
University of Illinois, covering a project of cooperative research
into the possibilities of revegetating and utilizing grasses and
legumes on strip mined areas for stock range and other purposes.

This project was originally set up on an estimate that it
would require five years of research in order to arrive at sound
conclusions. It has, however, been extended for three more years
and is now entering upon its seventh year. A progress report cover-
ing the first year of operation was issued on March 19, 19U8 dealing
principally with the proposed scope and plan of attack on the prob-
lem; a survey of spoil bank soils found throughout the state, and
preliminary reports on a number of seeding projects. The second
report was issued on March 15>, 19U9; the third report was issued on
March 6, 1950; the fourth report was issued on March 1, 1951 > and
the fifth report was issued on April 1, 1952, presenting further in-
formation on spoil bank soil materials, and comparisons of such ma-
terials with surface soils found on adjoining land; the adaptation
of various forage species to spoil bank soils; the results of pre-
liminary studies of comparative gains made by animals pastured on
spoil banks with those pastured on undisturbed blue grass and highly
improved grass-legume pasture and the utilization of stripped land
for pasture.

The report here presented covers the sixth year of operation.
A consolidated final report, covering the first five years of the pro-
gram is being printed as a bulletin of the University of Illinois
Agricultural Experiment Station and should be available in the near
future .

The studies to be made during the three year period will
carry on the uncompleted work of the present research program and,
in addition, will include several other phases of the strip mining
problems dealing with grading, types of overburden, compaction,
drainage, organic matter content, pasture carrying capacities,
pasture management, weed and brush control, etc., and a report will
be issued each year as the program progresses.

>.A UA,>

March 25, 1953

i.b

AGRONOMY PROJECT

NUMBER:

TITLE:

OBJECT:

LEADERS:

1003 - Sixth Annual Report.

Agronomic Land Use Research on the Mined Areas
of the Stripped Coal Lands of Illinois.

The objectives of the project are to investi-
gate the potentialities of revegetating
and utilizing agronomic species on the strip-
mined areas in Illinois.

A, L. Lang, J. A. Jackobs, J. N. Spaeth, and
R. R. Snapp.

Advisory Committee:

Dean R. R. Hudelson

M..B. Russell

F. C. Bauer

J. C. Hackleman

J. N. Spaeth

A. J. Christiansen

Louis S. Itfeber

Agronomist - Edward A. Thurn

AGRONOMIC LAND USE RESEARCH ON THE MINED AREAS ,
OF THE STRIPPED COAL LANDS OF ILLINOIS
by Edward A. Ihurni/

2he sixth annual report of progress on Agronomy Project 1003, covering
the investigations of the potentialities of revegetating strip-mine lands with
agronomic crops is herewith presented* This is a cooperative research project
of the University of Illinois Agricultural Experiment Station and the Illinois
Coal Strippers Association.

The sixth annual report covers the first year of a new three-year
project designed to study basic principles of agronomic species on graded strip-
mined land. Included in this report is a study of some physical and chemical
properties on graded strip-mine land. The research of the previous five years
was primarily devoted to the general development of the strip-mined areas.
The research for the past year has been confined to graded areas primarily in
western Illinois, and has been limited to fewer areas so that more detailed
information could be obtained.

The author acknowledges the assistance of Mr. L. S. Weber, Land Use
Engineer, Illinois Coal Strippers Association. Without his cooperation many
of the research plots could not have been established. Also grateful acknow-
ledgment is given Mr. Alten F. Grandt, Midland Electric Coal Corporation, for
his cooperation and his technical experience in the strip-mine areas and to
Dr. R. S. Stauffer, Associate Professor in Soil Physics, for his guidance and
suggestions of the work plan.

In the past six years, experimental research has been carried on at

i/Assistant, Soil Fertility, Department of Agronomy, University of Illinois,
Agricultural Experiment Station, Urbana.

-2-

25 different locations in 1U counties. Figure 1 shows the general location
where these plots have been established*

INVESTIGATIONS OF PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF THE SOIL

As of December 31, 1952, 1,6U8 soil samples have been collected from
the experimental plot areas and all have been tested by the University of
Illinois Soil Testing Laboratory. Table 1 shows the average amounts of avail-
able plant nutrients in the soil. The over-all average of these tests shows
an acidity range in pH of 2.1 to 8*5, with 75 percent of these samples ranging
in pH from 5»7 to 7»3. The average available phosphorus is 136 pounds per
acre, and the available potassium is 169 pounds per acre. Two hundred and seven
soil samples were taken and tested in 1952. These samples did not vary from
the over-all average any appreciable amount.

In addition to the samples taken from the plot areas over hSO field
samples have been taken. The results obtained are very similar to those ob-
tained from the plot areas.

Most of the soil tests taken in 1952 were from graded areas (Fig. 2).
As on ungraded spoils, wide variations frequently occur within small areas.
But in spite of these variations it is of primary importance to thoroughly
sample and test the soil of an area to determine its potential possibilities.

One of the essential elements for good forage growth is boron. It
is a trace element which has received very little attention. However, legumes,
especially alfalfa, are very sensitive to a boron deficiency. The fifth annual
report gives the boron content as being very high. Samples taken this year in
the same general area give only a medium test. The results, which were analyzed
by the Soil Testing Laboratory at the University of Illinois, are listed in
Table 2.

•3-

AGRONOMY DEPARTMENT, UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS, URBANA

Sl'

C >al Companies
Southern Illinois

arm

to
orsytfte-tfilli^ms on

-tf.T. Elkville

HUB. Fidelity

!>-^yramid

Southwestern

2)-£eninole

'•■Midwest Radii

Western Illinois

5-Bolar
2>Kej

\k* Morgan
ID- Little Si{

1L»U.E. Buc]
1M.E. Cuba
lfrhT.T. Fiatt
Fair view
•M.S. Rapatee-f
••Little John

kthern Illinoi s
M.E. Sheffield

1 J-Morris
1 J-Horthern

2 Hrfilmington
2 .-Northern

E tstern Illinola

? ^sAyr3 lAli , e«flai , 3attan

ILLINOIS

JCALC- STATUTE MIL13

o m to

M379

Location of Experimental Plots on Strip-Mined Coal Lands in Illinois

(Fig. 1)

-u-

Jt «to

I *

> .*

Foreground, freshly leveled area being prepared for a new seeding. Background,
unleveled spoils. (Fig« 2)

-5-

Table 1.— Soil Test Analysis of Spoil Bank Material

1 III

i iii i i i ii ■

Number

pH range

Phos-

Potas-

Acidity

of 75

per-

phorus

sium

Plot location

County

samples

pH range

cent samples

average

lb.B?

lb.*/

Southern Illinois

Sahara

Saline

2.5

7.0

2.9

6.0

169

Delta

Williamson

3.1

8.2

U.7

7.9

13U

Forsythe -William-

Williamson

2.5

8.2

U.9

7.5

178

169

son
Truax, Elkville

Jackson

3.U

7.8

5.0

7.U

117

173

U.E. Fidelity

Perry

2.3

8.3

3.9

7.9

151

206

Pyramid

Perry

U.o

8.2

6.6

7.9

160

Southwestern

Randolph

U.9

7.8

6.7

7.7

138

Seminole

St. Clair

7.2

7.7

7.U

7.7

126

168

Midwest Radiant

St. Clair

175

iu3

8.5

6.2

8.2

116

131

Subtotal and averages

568

2.3

8.5

U.9

7.9

115

157

Western Illinois

Solar

Schuyler

U.U

7.6

6.5

7.2

171

22U

Key

Fulton

6.9

8.0

7.3

7.9

107

103

Morgan

Fulton

6.5

7.8

6.7

7.7

185

216

Little Sister

Fulton

6.9

8.0

7.2

7.9

169

189

U.E. Buckhart

Fulton

6.9

8.1

7.3

7.9

125

133

E.E. Buckhart

Cuba

6.7

7.8

7.2

7.7

i5o

160

T.T. Fiatt

Fulton

150

6.U

8.3

7.U

8.0

160

158

Fairvlew

Fulton

2.7

7.9

6.2

7.6

1U3

172

Midland

Fulton-Knox 237

5.5

8.2

7.0

7.8

159

167

Little John

Knox

2.9

8.3

U.6

7.9

17U

192

M.S. Atkinson

Henry

6.9

7.7

7.0

7.5

17U

188

Pioneer

Peoria

2.7

7.7

6.8

7.6

165

Subtotal and

averages

770

2.7

8.3

7.0

7.9

158

169

Northern Illinois

M.E. Sheffield

Bureau

6.1

8.1

7.1

7.8

152

217

Northern Illinois

Grundy ^tfill

2.U

8.1

3.0

7.6

1U2

192

Morris

Grundy

2.6

6.5

2.6

3.7

1UU

Wellington

Will

3.U

8.5

7.U

8.3

170

Northern Illinois

Kankakee

U.7

8.1

7.5

8.1

110

18U

Subtotal and

averages

276

2.U

8.5

3.2

7.9

125

191

Eastern Illinois

Harmaitan

Vermilion

2.1

192

Total and averages

16U8

2.1

8.5

5.7

7.3

136

169

2f Low and high pH

y P - 92 lb./A, high; K - 150-200 lb./A, high.

«»o«»

Table 2.— Special Soil Test Report for Available Boron

Company

County

Available
phosphorus

Available
potassium

Available
boron

1,00
1.25

Boron
rating

Midland Rspatee

Knox

7.7

7.3

190

208

Ili6
300

Medium
Medium

T.T. Fiatt

Fulton

7.U
7.3

208
208

200
158

2.00

1.25

Medium
Medium

Little Sister

Fulton

7.7
7.U

159
200

235

1.25
1.00

Medium
Medium

Midland

Fulton

7.2
7.3

156
123

152
152

1.25
1.25

Medium
Medium

There are many factors that could be in part responsible for this
rapid change in boron content. First and probably the most important factor
is leaching • Boron is a mobile ion. This ion is similar to nitrogen, in that
it moves freely in soil solution. Any mobile ion is subject to severe leach-
ing, especially when the quantity is high in the soil. This does not mean,
however, that boron will be deficient in the near future. Crop removal also
depletes the available boron in the soil but it is not normally removed very
rapidly by cropping. Very few boron analyses have been made, and for this
reason, the above data may not give an accurate representation of the spoil
banks* Although the soil tests have shown a range in available boron from
medium to very high, no plant toxicity or deficiency has been observed in the
field. At this time there is no concrete evidence as to why there is such a
wide variation of boron in the soil material.

Mechanical Analysis

Mechanical analysis, (1) or the measurement of soil particle size,
lis very important in determining the future potential of the spoil banks. One
can see the rock, shale, and some sand. However, in respect to plant production,

-7-

the smaller particles are of greater importance* This analysis determines the
quantity, in percent by weight, of sand, silt, and clay* This size distribution
was obtained by analyzing the less than 2 mm* fraction of the soil material*
The particle sizes of the above classifications are: sand - 2 ram* to 0*05 mm*,
silt - 0*05 to 0*002 mm*, and clay 0*002 mm* and less* Table 3 gives the par*
tide size for some graded areas in western Illinois*
Table 3*— "Mechanical Analysis of Strip-Mine Soil Materials on Graded AreasSr

Company

Sand Silt Clay
2 mm* to 0,05 mm* to 0*002 mm*
County 0*05 mm* 0*002 mm* and less

Soil class*/

Somers pasture

Fulton

32*3

15.7

22*0

Loam

Little Sister

Fulton

15.2

5U.8

30*0

Silty clay loam

Fairview

Fulton

11*7

U.5

Ui.8

Silty clay

Midland

Fulton

12 *U

53.3

33.8

Silty clay loam

T*T. Fiatt

Fulton

20.U

U3.8

35.3

Clay loam

U*E* BucJehart

Fulton

U*J*

51.8

30.8

Silty clay loam

Midland

Knox

17*9

I16.I4

35.3

Silty clay loam

Fairview

Fulton

19.0

38.1

12*9

Clay

—'The results in this table are composite ssrtples from five sample areas*

-'Based on texture*

There is no significant difference in the mechanical analysis of graded
and ungraded areas* A farm soil having a classification of silt loam, which
is a very common soil class, has an approximate range in particle size of 10
to 20 percent sand, 50 to 60 percent silt, and 20 to 30 percent clay* Most
of the strip-mined land contains slightly more clay than this*

The small particles, or clay, are very important in that they are the
main storehouse for plant nutrients* Clay particles are directly related to
the capacity of a soil to supply nutrients to the plants* However, a soil, can
be too high in clay causing undesirable physical conditions* Too much clay
can cause high plasticity, low aeration, high rate of compaction, and low

-8-

permeability* The water-holding capacity of a soil is determined by the amount
of clay particles and the organic matter content* Since organic matter is
I deficient in the spoil banks, clay particles play an important role in water-
Iholding capacity.

Mechanical analyses of the different strata in the high wall are
listed in Table h* These analyses illustrate the particle size of the material
in the different strata* Further information will be submitted later in the
paper*

Permeability and Physical Studies

Prior to grading the use of spoil bank areas is limited primarily
to forestry, grazing, and recreation* After grading, when farm machinery can
be used, crop land becomes a possibility* When the spoil banks are graded,
and a more diversified utilization is possible, physical conditions become more
important* Drainage, permeability, compaction, and puddling undergo changes
in the process of leveling*

Leveling of spoil banks and vegetative growth causes a change in
permeability of the soil material* On unleveled areas, where the land was
bare and the material was a silty clay texture, the percolation rate was 9*29
inches of water per hour* On similar areas covered by vegetation for years,
the rate was 13*57 inches per hour (2)* These rates are classified as r'oid
and very rapid, respectively, by the Soil Conservation Service* Table 5 gives
the results obtained in western Illinois on some of the leveled research plots*

The percolation rates given in Table 5 are much lower than results
previously mentioned on similar but unleveled spoils* Apparently leveling re*
duces the rate of percolation, which is due to compaction during leveling and
perhaps to some extent to settling*

-9-

Table k* — Mechanical Analysis of Highwall Strata

Company

Strata

Sand

Silt

Clay

Soil class

Tops oil

8.6

60.0

31.U

Silty clay loam

Midland

Lower Peorian loess

1.0

72.9

26.2

Silt loam

Electric

Sangamon loess

5.0

58.6

36.U

Silty clay loam

Fulton

Glacial till

11.2

6U.U

2U.U

Silt loam

county

Yellow shale

16.6

U6.0

37. »4

Silty clay loam

Blue shale

1U.8

53.2

32.0

Silty clay loam

Tops oil

5.6

62.U

32.0

Silty clay loam

Fairview

Lower Peorian loess

• • * .

72. h

27.6

Silty clay loam

Fulton

Sangamon loess

9.8

hi. 6

Ii2.6

Silty clay

county

Glacial till

US.!*

25.0

29.6

Sandy clay loam

Yellow shale

26 i4

U5.8

27.9

Clay loam

Grey shale

....

62. h

37.6

Silty clay loam

Topsoil

5.U

59.0

35.6

Silty clay loam

Truax-

Lower Peorian loess

13.9

60.0

26.1

Silt loam

Traer

Sangamon loess

26.8

39.U

33.8

Clay loam

Fulton

Glacial till

19.U

33.8

36.8

Clay

county

Grey shale

. . • •

37.2

62.9

Clay

Blue shale

....

76.0

2U.0

Silt loam

Topsoil

7.6

69.6

22.8

Silt loam

Little

Lower Peorian loess

3.8

61.2

35.0

Silty clay loam

Sister

Sangamon loess

• . • .

81.0

19.0

Silt loam

Fulton

Glacial till

21.8

33.6

3li.6

Clay

county

Yellow shale

7.6

U3.U

19.0

Silty clay

Blue shale

32.8

67.0

Clay

Topsoil

7.U

71.6

21.0

Silt loam

Midwest

Lower Peorian loess

1U.8

68.9

16.U

Silt loam

Radiant

Sangamon loess

6.8

71.2

22.0

Silt loam

St. Clair

Glacial till

32.2

39.6

28.2

Loam

county

Grey shale

17.6

52.5

29.9

Silty clay loam

Topsoil

6.1 4

78J4

15.2

Silt loam

Lower Peorian loess

16.6

5U.li

28.6

Silty clay loam

Seminole

Glacial till

33.8

33.2

33.0

Clay loam

St. Clair

Yellow shale

20.U

71.2

12.6

Silt loam

county

Grey shale

1.8

U6.6

51.6

Silty clay

Black shale

1.2

1*5.6

53.2

Silty clay

U.E.

Topsoil

ll.li

75.3

13.3

Silt loam

Fidelity

Lower Peorian loess

9.6

6U.8

25.6

Silt loam

Perry

Yellow shale

lu2

18.6

li7.2

Silty clay

county

Grey shale

21.6

Wi.U

3U.0

Clay loam

Topsoil

5.U

71.0

23.6

Silt loam

Southwestern

Lower Peorian loess

37.2

35.6

27.2

Clay loam

Randolph

Glacial till

8.2

62.2

29.6

Silty clay loam

-10-

Table 5 ♦—Percolation Rate, Pore Space, and Volume Weight of Leveled

Areas in Western Illinois^

Company

County

Depth
of sample

Vol,
wt.

Perco-
lation

Total

pore

space

Capillary

pore

space

Noncapil-
lary pore
space

in.

in,/hr.

Midland^

Knox

to 3
9 to 12

1.37
Uh9

1.52
.17

1*7.8
1*5.0

39.2
1*0.3

8.5
1*.7

U.E, EuckhartS/

Fulton

to 3
9 to 12

1.56
1.1*9

.69
.37

12.0

1*5.5

37.0
38.8

5.0
6.9

Midland^/

Fulton

to 3
9 to 12

1*31*

1.56

.26
.15

1*5.5
1*1.8

38.3
38.9

7.2
2.8

T,T. Fiattg/

Fulton

to 3
9 to 12

1.36
1.72

.21

.21*

1*7.5
37.9

39.3
35.8

8.2
2.1

Little Sister£/

Fulton

to 3
9 to 12

1.31
1*1*8

1.50

•12

1*7.1

1*3.7

37.3

1*1.6

10.1
2.1

Fairviewf/

Fulton

to 3
9 to 12

l.hl
1.62

.53
.57

1*8.1*
1*1.2

39.9
36.9

7.9
5.9

y Each depth is an average of seven samples
-/ Leveled in 191*7 - four years of alfalfa
^Leveled in 1950 - two years of alfalfa
^Leveled in 1952 - bare, planted to corn in 1952
-'Leveled in 1952 - bare, planted to corn in 1952
£/box cut spoil leveled 1951 - volunteer growth
W Leveled 1951 - one year wheat

The following table has been set up by the Soil Conservation Service
to classify the permeability rates in soils (3).

Permeability Percolation inches per hour

Very slow less than 0.05

Slow 0.05 to 0.20

Moderately slow 0.20 to 0.80

Moderate 0.80 to 2,50

Moderately rapid 2.50 to 5.00

Rapid 5.00 to 10.00

Very rapid more than 10.00

-11-

The percolation on graded areas that have been analyzed ranges from slow to mod-
erate which does not differ greatly from the percolation rates of most Illinois
soils*

Table 5 shows higher volume weight in the 9 to 12 inch layer* The
average of this layer is 1.56 compared to 1*39 for the to 3 inch layer* Per-
colation average is 0*79 in the to 3 inch layer compared to 0*27 in the 9 to
12 inch layer* Total pore space averages U6*U and 1*2.5 in the to 3 and 9 to
12 inch layers, respectively* Noncapillary pore space averages 7»o" and U*l in
the to 3 and 9 to 12 inch layer*

Total pore space is that part of the entire volume occupied by soil
material not actually taken up by solid particles* As the clay content in-
creases the total pore space generally increases, but the noncapillary pore
space is likely to decrease* Pore space is of great importance since water and
air relationships depend upon it* Soils with too low noncapillary porosity do
not drain satisfactorily*

The total porosity is not so important for characterizing the
structural properties of soils as is the relative distribution of the pore
sizes (!*)• The noncapillary pore space is the sum of the volumes of the large
pores, which will not hold water tightly by capillary* They are normally filled
with air and are responsible for the air capacity and ready percolation of the
water through the soil* Capillary porosity is the sum of the volumes of small
pores that hold water by capillary. They are responsible for the water-holding
capacity of the soil. A soil could have $0 percent or more total porosity with
about equal amounts of capillary and noncapillary porosity (li). This distri-
bution of total pore space might be found in very young or in very sandy soils*
Many well drained soils in Illinois range from 3 to 8 percent noncapillary pore
space (5)*

-12-

The footnotes of Table 5> give the vegetative history of the individ-
ual fields. The following table gives the average of some of the physical
measurements in Table 5 comparing alfalfa plots and bare corn plots «

All volume weights on alfalfa plots 1»L8

All volume weights on bare plots 1.K9

Percolation to 3 inch layer alfalfa plots 1.1.1

Percolation to 3 inch layer bare plots .21;

Percolation 9 to 12 inch layer alfalfa plots #27

Percolation 9 to 12 inch layer bare plots .20

Noncapillary pore space to 3 inch layer alfalfa plots 6 # 8
Noncapillary pore space to 3 inch layer bare plots 7.7

Noncapillary pore space 9 to 12 inch layer alfalfa plots 5«8
Noncapillary pore space 9 to 12 inch layer bare plots 2.5

Volume weight shows no difference between vegetative and bare areas. The sur-
face layer under vegetation shows a significant difference in percolation.
However, the 9 to 12 inch layer shows little increase for vegetation. Noncapil-
lary pore space shows little variation in the surface layer between vegetated
and bare areas. In the 9 to 12 inch layer, however, the noncapillary pore
space is substantially higher in the vegetated plots.

The samples for this study were taken by the 3-inch core method (6).
Some difficulty is encountered in sampling the material by this method because
of its heterogeneous nature. However, it is the author's recommendation that
this phase of the study should be continued.

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE STRATA IN THE HIGHWALL

The spoil banks are made up of a mixture of materials from different
strata which occur above the coal. The percentage of each strata found in the
upper portion of the spoil banks depends upon the thickness of the particular
stratum as well as upon the method of mining. A study of the characteristics

-13-

of the strata and the proportion of each occurring in the overburden, coupled

with the method of mining should furnish information on the amount of each

strata occurring on or near the surface of the spoil banks. This information

is of value in determining the best land use for these areas*

Samples of each stratum from the surface of the soil to the top of

the coal were taken in order to make some chemical tests and also mechanical

analyses. These samples were also studied in the greenhouse to determine their

ability to support plant growth. The following table shows the classification

of each stratum and its approximate thickness.

Classification Depth

ft.

Topsoil, normally plow depth 0-1.5

Lower Peorian loess 0-16=/

Sangamon (Farmdale) loess 2-9

Glacial till 5-30

Yellow shale)

Gray shale ) variable depths U— 50

Blue shale )

Rock 0-25

-* This depth includes all Peorian loess

The thickness of the individual strata varies with the total depth
of the overburden and also with location. As the overburden becomes thicker
the shales generally become thicker. The upper strata also vary in thickness
but to a lesser extent than the shales.

Table 6 illustrates the chemical analysis of the samples taken in
the highwall.

Tops oil

5.0

7.0

Lower Peorian loess

5.2

7.7

Sangamon loess

7.0

7.9

Glacial till

7.9

Yellow shale

7.2

8.3

Gray shale

7.6

8.1

Blue shalefy

7.3

8.3

-Hi-
Table 6 ♦—Chemical Analyses of Samples From Individual Strata

pH Available phosphorus

Strata acidity range ?■£/ ?^/ Available potassium

W Wf 1WA. lb./A. lb./A«

22 215
U4O 209
10ii 180
87 188
109 196
122 268
200 30U

2f?± - exchangeable - readily available to the plant

-2 f ?2 - total available phosphorus

2/Lcw and high

-/Unpublished data by G. Deithschman and J. W. Neckers (10)

The topsoil is usually leached of the more soluble constituents. This

varies according to the previous management and fertilizer program. However,
the surface soil material, which includes all the loess, is in general high in
plant nutrients. The glacial till is variable in that the Ulinoisan till is
highly weathered and leached. The more recent Wisconsin till, which is not
found south of Peoria county, is not so highly weathered. The shales are nor-
mally alkaline and high in phosphorus and potassium. The shale layers are very
similar in characteristics except that the upper shales are more weathered which
causes the variation in color. The above table indicates less phosphorus and
potassium in the upper shales than in the lower shale.

The mechanical analysis of the highwall samples are illustrated in
Table 7.

-15-

Table 7 •—Mechanical Analysis of Strata in the Overburden^

Soil separates

Sand

Silt

Clay

Strata

2.0-.05 mm.

.05-.002

mm. .002

mm, and finer

Soil class

Topsoil

7.U

68.lt

2k.h

Silt loam

Lower Peorian

loess

12 J*

59.5

27.8

Silty clay loam

Sangamon loess

10.9

60.7

28.1

Silty clay loam

Glacial till

25.3

Uo.5

31.3 r

Clay loam

Yellow shale

lii.7

51.6

33.7

Silty clay loam

Gray shale

8.2

U8.6

1*3.2

Silty clay

Blue shale

2.1

U8.9

50.7

Silty clay

i? Averages from Table k

A mixture of the above strata makes up the material in the spoil banks* It
cannot be foretold what percentage of each stratum will make up the mixture of
the upper portion of the spoil, because the method of stripping is a factor in
this determination. Good, productive soils usually contain a mixture of sand,
silt, and clay. Those containing a relatively high percentage of silt and
sand usually drain well and are well aerated. Such soils are less subject to
puddling and compaction than those containing a high percentage of clay. On
the other hand, soils containing a high proportion of clay are easily puddled
and may become very compact and impervious to water unless managed so as to
retain a granular structure. Clay particles are very small and plate or disk-
like in shape and can be fitted -very closely together, thus forming an impervioi
mass. This is what happens when clay soils are tilled too wet. Therefore, it
is reasonable to assume that where shaly material makes up a considerable portic
of the surface layer of spoil banks, great care must be exercised in working
and leveling the material or a compact unproductive soil will result.

The clay mineral types in the shale are for the most part illite,
kaolinite, and chlorite. The quantity of the different clay mineral types

-16-

vary widely within the state* Illite has been found in all of the shales. It
will range from about UO to 100 percent of the clay content. Kaolinite is
usually found in southern Illinois and ranges from to U0 percent* Chlorite
usually ranges from 20 to U0 percent (7). The clay mineral illite is desir-
able in our Illinois soils. Kaolinite is not as desirable as illite, but this

/
clay mineral can form good productive soils. Chlorite is the first of these

minerals to break down, and it is not as important in soil formation.

The weathering or disintegration of the shales is for the most part
very rapid, T /flien placed in water, a 7-pound sample with a rock hardness of
2.0, completely broke down in 3 to U hours. It is noted in the field that the
shales decompose very rapidly.

A study of the strata in the highwall was made in the greenhouse.
Samples of each stratum were placed in gallon jars. Nitrogen was added to each
jar at the rate of approximately 100 pounds of the element per acre. Alfalfa,
ryegrass, and corn were planted. In all cases the alfalfa and ryegrass germinated.
In five of the corn samples, the seed rotted before germination. Alfalfa did
not continue to grow on samples with a low pH, but it did grow on the other
samples. The ryegrass grew on all samples. Corn, however, was retarded in
growth and the plants did not have a healthy appearance.

Figures 3 and k indicate that, in general, forage crops are more
adaptable to the individual strata than corn. They also indicate that the per-
centage of each strata in the upper portion of the strip-mined lands are a
factor in their potential productivity,

FORAGE CROPS £^

Leguraes and grasses continue to be the principal crops best adapted
to the spoil banks. Some crops are better adapted geographically than others.
A seeding mixture of alfalfa, brome, and orchard grass appearsto give the best

-17-

B(tst \ \

ifotmsffif***'

*4*V*

'»-

Ij&st-

S^f

ZS?

**A'"Vi".

o
o

i «l fa mt &.

CO
CO

cu
o

•H

Jn
O

CU
Pl,

18-

■

i-l

aJ
XI

—19

Fig. k Corn growth on individual strata within the same highwall. The strata
are from left to right top soil, lower Peorian loess, glacial till,
yellow shale, grey shale, and blue shale.

-20-

results for western Illinois • Birdsfoot trefoil is well adapted, but it cannot
withstand severe competition in pasture establishment • It has proven success-
ful when seeded with red clover, Ihe longevity of birdsfoot trefoil is its
greatest attribute* Once established, it will compete with weeds and other
undesirable plant species ♦ Figure 5> shows a well established stand of birdsfoot
trefoils It is particularly good on unleveled areas because once established,
it furnishes good pasture for many years* Ladino clover is very well adapted
and it is very palatable and good animal gains can be made, but due to the
possibility of bloat, it is not recommended in the above seed mixture* Fescue,
bluegrass, and timothy are also well adapted.

Alfalfa, lespedeza, fescue (Ky. 31 and Alta), and orchard grass makes
a good seed mixture for southern Illinois, Birdsfoot trefoil is also well
adapted in this part of the state. Since southern Illinois has a longer grow-
ing season than the rest of the state, there is a possibility of year round
grazing* The University of Illinois experiment station at Dixon Springs has
carried out some research work on winter pastures. These experiments showed
that a mixture of Ladino clover and fescue grass would maintain beef cows through-
out the winter. These pastures were grazed from October to May. It was deter-
mined that lj acres of pasture would maintain one beef cow. The only supple-
mentary feed fed was hay when snow and ice prohibited grazing. These animals
did not gain any weight during this grazing period, but neither did they show
a loss. However, greater gains were made by these animals on the following
spring and summer pasture than by animals wintered in a drylot.

Alfalfa variety studies were established by Grandt (8) in 1950 and
193>1« Eleven varieties were established on graded areas in nine different
locations. The object of this study was to determine what alfalfa variety or

-21-

*%i

Good stand of birdsf oot trefoil

(Fig. 5)

-22-

varieties were best suited for the strip-mined areas ♦ Due to reseeding, physical

destruction, and grazing, only two locations are still intact ♦

The two plots studied this year were both seeded in the spring of

1951* Climatic conditions for the following winter were favorable for alfalfa

winter survival. It will require many years to show which variety is best

suited for the mined lands • Table 8 gives the plant survival and the l°5l

winterkill, for plots in southern Illinois. Even though winter conditions were

not severe, some varieties show a very high mortality rate. They consist

mainly of nonhardy types. The varieties with high mortality rates are becoming

infested with weeds, and it is expected that by next year these varieties will

produce lower yields and lower quality hay. The varieties with a small amount

of winterkill are well established with little or no infestation of weeds.

Table 8.— Plant Survival and 195l Winterkill for
Alfalfa Varieties in Southern Illinois

Number of live Death loss

Variety plants per sq. ft. per sq. ft.

perct.

2.2

l.U
7.6

1«9

2U.8
37.2

Table 9 gives the average and individual alfalfa yields for southern
and western Illinois. The average production for the different varieties shows
no significant difference. The number of plants per square foot is in most
cases quite high. Four alfalfa plants per square foot are adequate for good
production, on highly fertile soil, as long as weeds can be controlled. Wilt
resistant and winter-hardy varieties should continue to show good yields while

Roswell

Buffalo

Kansas Common

Chilean

Hatch

India

Africa

-23

the other species not so well adapted will reduce yield*

Table 9.— 1952 Average of Individual
Alfalfa Yields

Variety

Yield

Individual yields

for

southern

Illinois

T./A.

Buffalo

1.9

Roswell

1.7

Hatch

1.6

Kansas Common

2.3

Chilean

1.8

Africa

1.U

India

1.6

Individual yields

for

western

Illinois

Buffalo

5.5

Roswell

5.5

Hatch

5.2

Chilean

5.2

Africa

5.2

India

5.7

Average yields

for southern and

western

Illinois

Buffalo

3.7

Roswell

3.6

Hatch

3.U

Chilean

3.5

Africa

3.3

India

3.7

The low yields in southern Illinois were primarily due to the very
serious drouth. Only two cuttings w*»re taken and the second cutting had suf-
fered severely from lack of moisture • Previous data show uiat under normal
climatic conditions, the southern Illinois spoil banks are quite capable of
producing good quality, high yielding legumes and grasses.

In western Illinois the winter survival of the southern alfalfa
species was very high. The lack of winterkill in western Illinois was probably
due to climate and not to species • Since population, or thickness of stand,

-2U-

was very similar for all varieties, a field observation showed little difference
in growth. The yield of three cuttings of hay substantiates this observation*
Samples were taken for the fourth cutting on October 8, 19$2* This cutting
yielded from 1*2 to 1*6 tons giving one variety a total yield of 7«2 tons for
the season* Ihe fourth cutting was not included in the year's average, because
it is impractical to cut hay at this time* This would result in a lack of food
reserve in the roots causing a high winter mortality rate and a reduced growth
the following year*

Legume and grass plots have been established under different fertility
rates to determine whether or not longevity and yields can be increased* Fig-
ure 7 describes a nitrogen study on alfalfa, brome, and birdsfoot trefoil* Ihe
series of fertility rates are set up in triplicate and the species are random-
ized. A blanket application of 300 pounds of 0-20-20 fertilizer was applied
so that phosphorus and potassium would not be a limiting factor in plant growth.
Variable rates of nitrogen were applied, see Figure 1 9 to determine what effects
could be derived from nitrogen* These plots were seeded on April 11, 1952*
Yields were not taken this year since the first season's growth was not adequate
for yield determinations* Little or no difference was observed in thickness
of stand in the fall of 1952 due to nitrogen*

Growth did show a response to nitrogen on bromegrass seeded without
legumes* When grasses and legumes are seeded as a mixture, the grasses show a
better growth than when seeded alone* For this reason the response of grass
in the mixture to nitrogen fertilizer cannot be determined. Stand and yield
determinations will be made in 1953> and at this time more information will be
obtained*

-25-

Alfalfa establishment on graded area in western Illinois.

(Fig. 6)

-26-

Figure 7«— Nitrogen Study on Legumes and Grass

120

Alfalfa

120
90
60
30
10

Alfalfa

120

. 60

Birdsfoot trefoil

Alfalfa-brome

B» trefoil-brome

B* trefoil-brome

B. trefoil-brome

Alfalfa

Birdsfoot trefoil

Alfalfa-brome

Birdsfoot trefoil

Alfalfa

B« trefoil-brome

Alfalfa

B» trefoil-brome

Birdsfoot trefoil

Alfalfa-brome

fll

Birdsfoot trefoil

Alfalfa

B. trefoil-brome

Alfalfa

B« trefoil-brome

Birdsfoot trefoil

Alfalfa-brome

Alfalfa

Alfalfa-brome

Alfalfa

Alfalfa-brome

B # trefoil-brome

Birdsfoot trefoil

B« trefoil-brome

o
u

-p

•ri

Birdsfoot trefoil

B# trefoil-brome

Alfalfa

Alfalfa-brome

Birdsfoot trefoil

B» trefoil-brome

Alfalfa

Birdsfoot trefoil

Alfalfa

Birdsfoot trefoil

Alfalfa

Birdsfoot trefoil

B» trefoil-brome

Birdsfoot trefoil

B» trefoil-brome

Alfalfa

Alfalfa-brome

B» trefoil-brome

Birdsfoot trefoil

Alfalfa-brome

B« trefoil-brome

B. trefoil-brome

Alfalfa

Alfalfa-brome

B» trefoil-brome

Alfalfa

Birdsfoot trefoil

-27-

Figure 8 describes a fertility study to determine the plant growth

response to nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium*

Figure 8 «— Fertility Study of Nitrogen,
Phosphorus, and Potassium on Alfalfa
and Birdsf oot Trefoil

0-0-0

a/ r - c £/-o

0-8-0

8—8-8

8-0-8

0-0

-82/

0-8-8

8-0-C

8-0-8

8-8-8

8-0-0

0-8-8

0-0-8

0-8-0

8-8-0

0-0-0

-'Equivalent to 300 pounds of a 20 percent

nitrogen fertilizer per acre*

«2r Equivalent to 300 pounds of superphosphate
per acre*

— Equivalent to 100 pounds of muriate of

potash per acre*
These plots were seeded on April 29, 1952* Yield and stand studies will be
made in 1953* There was no apparent variation in growth in the first season
due to fertilizer*

-28-

GRAIN CROPS

When spoil banks are graded there are more possibilities for utili-
sation* ?arra machinery can be used which makes the growing of grain crops
possible. This in turn requires a crop rotation. On freshly leveled areas
it appears now that it is advisable to grow grasses and legumes for some time
before adopting a crop rotation. Just how long this interval of time should
be is not known at present • A tentative long-time cropping plan should be
made for each individual graded area and as more information is accumulated,
changes in the planning can be made to fit the situation*

There are several reasons why grasses and legumes have a beneficial
effect on freshly graded areas « These species provide a good environment for
a rapid increase in bacteria. They tend to increase the degree of aggregation
and stability in the soil. The organic matter formed in the soil by these

species increases permeability which allows better drainage and aeration. A

y
few years growth of legumes and grasses plan an important role in greatly re-
ducing crusting and puddling. The root penetration is a means of opening up
this soil material allowing a deeper water penetration.

Wheat, rye, and barley have proved successful in most instances
when seeded immediately after leveling. It is possible to seed these species
in the fall as a nurse crop for the spring seeded legumes and grasses. In
this manner it is possible to produce a cash crop while establishing the
legumes and grasses. It must be remembered that if the nurse crop is too
successful, and therefore competitive to the grasses and legumes, the initial
objective of establishing legumes and grasses will be defeated. The legumes
and grasses can be seeded in the fall with the nurse crop, but due to the

-29-

0mm

UAjMM

V '

■ : *■** «j^B*M~ ' "**'." - Oil'-*

• j

• 72£ S

j<-.

Wheat yielding 30*5 bushels per acre on freshly graded strip-mined land in
western Illinois, (Fig. 9)

-30-

.. { rf"? ^ "*i ■ '/*•

Good stand of alfalfa immediately after the removal of wheat nurse crop.

(Fig. 10)

-31-

possibility of a crust forming on the soil which prevents the seedling from

coming up, this procedure is not recommended. This crusting or compacting is

primarily due to the lack of organic matter and poor soil structure. This

situation is developed by the soil drying out after a heavy rainfall* If the

seedlings break the surface before this happens, a good stand usually results.

Wheat yields taken from two areas in western Illinois yielded 19.1

bushels per acre and 30.5 bushels per acre. This average yield of 21^.8 bushels

per acre was grown under good climatic conditions. The alfalfa seeded in these

areas shows an excellent stand when 19.1 bushels of wheat per acre were grown,

but the area producing 30.5 bushels of wheat had a poor stand of alfalfa.

These were not experimental plots and consisted of approximately 70 acres. The

following wheat yields are an average for three years.

Table 10.— Average Wheat lields for
Strip-Mined Land

Year Yield

bu»/A.

19U9 2U.5

1951 18*0

1952 2L8

Average 22+1;

The wheat yielding 30*5 bushels per acre had a protein content of 12 .1* percent
and the weight was 62 pounds per bushel. These results show this wheat to be
of high quality.

Soybeans were seeded in the spring of 1952 on a newly graded area.
Figure 11 illustrates the fertilizer applied to this area. There was no notice-
able difference in growth due to the above fertilizer applications. The manure
plots were somewhat better, but in no case did the plants have a normal growth.

-32-

These plants did mature and form seed pods even though the average height of
the plant was approximately ll± inches. These plants were affected by root rot
caused by Rhizoctonia solani . This disease is not common in Illinois but is
aggravated by cool, wet weather in the early spring (9)* The root rot may have
been in part responsible for poor growth, but other factors were also responsi-
ble. Yield data were not taken from these plots. The soybeans were plowed
down and this area was seeded to fall alfalfa.

Figure 11 •— Fertilizer Application on Soybean Plots

Check
P a/

Calfide£/
Manure^/

20QS/

100

a/,

-' U00 pounds of superphosphate per acre.

b/ „ •

-'150 pounds of muriate of potash per acre.

2/l,l50 pounds per acre.

-/lO tons per acre

-/ Pounds of elemental nitrogen

-33-

Since corn is one of the better cash crops grown in Illinois, more
work was done with this crop than with other cash crops on the graded areas ♦
Six areas were planted in corn in 1°52 producing an average yield of U3 bushels
per acre* Two of these areas yielded no production and they are averaged into
the above yield* The yields for the individual areas ranged from to 86 bushels
per acre. This wide range in yield can be explained in part by presenting the
history of these areas.

In all cases the results from the soil tests indicated the pH, phos-
phorus, and potassium to be high and very high. In some instances, the areas
were alkaline. The mines where the plots were established furnished machinery,
fertilizer, seed, and much of the labor.

Three -J-acre plots were established on the Little Sister mine. Funk's
Hybrid Seed Company furnished the seed and planted two of these areas. On one
plot 800 pounds of an equivalent of 20-20-20 fertilizer were broadcast per
acre and worked into the soil. Two hundred and forty pounds of 6-12-12 per
acre were applied as starter fertilizer. This plot averaged U6 bushels per
acre. The next plot received 500 pounds of 20-0-0, 250 pounds of 0-20-0, and
150 pounds of 0-0-60 fertilizer per acre broadcast. Again 2U0 pounds of 6-12-12
were used as a starter fertilizer. This plot produced an average of 53 bushels
per acre. These spoil banks were leveled in 1950 and one years growth of Sudan
grass had been grown on the area.

The third plot of this series was established on a box cut spoil that
had been graded in 1950. The previous vegetation was volunteer growth which
consisted mostly of weeds. This area had less rock and shale and more loess
and till in the spoil bank mixture than average. The chemical analysis of this
plot had a pH range of 7»3 to 7«7> an average available phosphorus reading of l83>

and a potassium reading of 17U pounds per acre. The yields and fertilizer ap-
plication are illustrated in Figure 12 •

Figure 12.— 1952 Yield and Fertilizer Application
on Corn Plots on the Little Sister Mine

<D
bO
O

-p

Check

2$c£/

160

U6.Q2/

76*3

75a

91.9

58.7

U6.6

U7.6

1*8.7

83.1

80.1

98.?

108.7

63.7

P£/

*$/

-* Corn yield per acre.

-^Pounds of elemental nitrogen per acre.

2/ Equivalent of 300 pounds of superphosphate per acre,

—'Equivalent of 100 pounds of muriate of potash per acre,

-35-

Poor corn growth on freshly graded areas •

(Fig. 13)

-36-

The yield of the check plot with no fertilizer applied produced U6 bushels per
acre. An analysis of the yield shows an increase for an application of nitrogen.
The phosphorus and potassium plots with variable rates of nitrogen do not show
any definite yield response. The individual yields under varied fertility rates
are so variable that a specific response to the various fertilizers cannot be
accurately determined from these data.

This variation in yield was due in part to some causes that are not
as yet completely identified. When these corn plants were approximately 12
inches tall, the top growth developed symptoms that were similar to a phosphorus
deficiency. These plants were analyzed in the laboratory and gave a high test
for phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium. The plants were stunted in growth
and many of the leaves were damaged. In about 10 days the plant overcame these
symptoms and started to grow. During this period some of the plants were re-
moved in order to observe root structure. The roots were strong and sturdy,
and formed a good root system. However, the conditions mentioned above, weak-
ened the corn plants. At a later date these plots were infested with the
northern rootworm. This infestation was also found in surrounding fields.
It is now known to what degree the rootworms reduced yield, but they did cause
a reduction in root support and much of the corn was down at the time of
harvest.

Two more areas were selected for corn plots. These were newly graded
spoils with no previous vegetative growth. Fertilizer applications of many
variations were applied. On the area established on the Truax-Traer mine at
Fiatt, 10 tons of manure per acre were applied to one series of plots. These
plots were crossed with variable rates of nitrogen. All of the plots in this
area developed symptoms similar to the area on the Little Sister mine. This

-37-

v"*A

fc*V"

Upper, corn growth after four years of legumes,
spoils. Lower, close-up of the same field.

Foreground freshly leveled

(Fig. 1U)

-38-

corn produced tassels and silks when the stalk was 3 J to h feet tall, but there
was no yield of grain* The manure plots were somewhat better than the other
plots, but they did not mature adequately to develop grain* The soil con-
ditioner, ''Calfide", was applied as was nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium*
It was observed that, if anything, Calfide repressed plant growth. The other
area, established on the Midland Electric mine produced results very similar
to the previous plots* Sections of these plots were treated with the minor
elements zinc, copper, boron, manganese, iron, and molybdenum* The amounts of
these elements needed for plant growth are extremely small. An equivalent of
20 pounds p^r acre of each of these elements were sprayed on the corn foliage*
No response was obtained by these applications, and it is probable that none
of these elements was a factor in creating the above symptoms* All plots were
treated with variable rates of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. No corn
was produced on any of these plots*

The last area where corn plots were established has a different back-
ground* This area was leveled in 19U7* In 1°!$ one-half of the area was seeded
to alfalfa and one-half to sweet clover* This alfalfa remained on the field
with the exception of 1950 when a hay crop was removed* The alfalfa and sweet
clover were plowed in the spring of 1952 and the area was planted to corn*
Twenty variations of fertilizer were applied in quadruplicate making a total
of 80 plots. This series of fertilizer application was randomized so that
factors other than fertilizer could be reduced to a minimum* These plots are
illustrated in Figure 15* The average number of corn plants per acre was 10,U20*
This population is a little low, and could be a factor in reducing production*
The average yields of the replicates under different fertilizer applications
are given in Table 11*

-39-

Figure 15*— Fertilizer Application on Corn

160
UO

120

160

& K£/ PK

K PK

120

160

120

N -

pounds of elemental nitrogen per acre*

the equivalent of 300 pounds of superphosphate per acre*

the equivalent of 100 pounds of muriate of potash per acre*

-liO-

Table 11 ♦— Yields of Com on Leveled Area
in Western Illinois 1952

k£/

Average

bu./A.

bu./A

• bu./A

• bu./A.

91.02/

82.2

8U.1

92.5

87.5

uqS/

86.3

85.0

93.5

86.7

87.9

92.3

77.U

81.9

72.5

81.0

120

93.6

85.6

97.9

83.U

90.1

160

101.9

92.2

98.5

79.3

92.9

Average

93*0

8U.5

91.2

82.9

i? 300 pounds of superphosphate per acre*

2/ 100 pounds of muriate of potash per acre.

2/ Average corn yield of three replications.

2/ Elemental form of nitrogen - pounds per
acre.

The statistical analysis of these data shows no significant increase
in yield when nitrogen was applied at the given rates. This means that the
previous vegetation that was returned as green manure along with the root system
of that vegetation accumulated enough nitrogen in the soil that the nitrogen
was not a limiting factor in yield. When potassium fertilizer was added, there
was no increase in yield. When phosphorus fertilizer was added, there was a
significant increase in yield.

The pH of this soil material was 7.5. The available phosphorus read-
ing was very high. As the pH increases the phosphorus equilibrium tends to
move toward the easily acid soluble state causing the exchangeable or plant
available phosphorus to be reduced. Since the soil test reads a given amount
of acid soluble and exchangeable phosphorus, it is possible to get a high

-la-

reading under this condition, and not have a high plant availability. This
could be a reason for the increase in yield when phosphorus fertilizer is applied.
A complete analysis of the data shows no significant interaction between nitrogen
and phosphorus when applied to the same plot* However, the heavier applications
of nitrogen did cause some increase in yield even though it was not significant.

The increase in yield on the phosphorus fertilized plots over the
nonphosphorus fertilized plots was 8.1; bushels per acre. These results are from
only one area for one year, and more data must be accumulated before any ac-
curate fertilizer recommendation can be made. It is questionable from the above
data as to whether an application of phosphorus fertilizer is economical.

TREE KILLING EXPERIMENT

In 1951 tree killing experiments were initiated on strip-mine land.
The fifth year progress report presented detailed information on the establish-
ment of these experiments including plot layout, herbicides used, rates and
methods of application, number of tree species by diameter, class, and cost
studies. Final results of these experiments will be available after the 1953
growing season.

An interim inspection of Experiment A was made in July 1952, one year
from the date of application. This experiment was designed to study eiftht dif-
ferent methods of killing trees on eight J-acre plots. There was an average
of 132 trees per acre consisting of 68 percent cottonwood, 12 percent elm, 10
percent willow, 7 percent sycamore, and 3 percent box elder. The cottonwood
was also the largest specie in size with an average diameter of 8.1; inches and
a maximum of 16 inches.

Table 12 gives the results observed after one year of this experiment.

-12-

Table 12 .—Effect of Herbicide on Tree Growth One Year After Application

Plot 1-A
check

girdle only-
Plot 2-A
frill & animate
1 lb* per gal* water

Plot 3-A
cup & airanate
crystals - *6 lb#

Plot U-A
frill & spray
2,Ii,5-T in oil 1:2U

Plot 5-A

basal spray 2,U,5-T

l:2ii in oil

Plot 6-A

frill & spray 2,li-D

1:16 in oil

Complete top kill

Bark splitting Partial top kill

Heavily defoliated Various stages

Remaining leaves defoliation No noticeable

Completely brown Leaf browning effect

perct,

Plot 7-A

frill & spray

brush killer 1:16 in oil

Plot 8-A

basal spray

brush killer 1*16 in oil

Ammate - ammonium sulfamate

2,U,5-T - esteron 2,li,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid, propylene glycol butyl
ether ester 66 percent or k pounds acid per gallon*

2,ij-B - isopropyl ester of 2,U-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid Ui percent or 3*3
pounds acid per gallon*

rush killer - 2,14-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid 2 pounds per gallon and 2,^,5-
trichlorophenoxyacetic acid propylene glycol butyl ether ester
2 pounds acid per gallon*

Plot No* 5 upon which a basal spray of 16 pounds a h g of 2,it,5-li/
in diesel oil was applied gave the most spectacular results* This was close-
ly followed by Plot No* 8 in which the method of application was also basal
spray using the trade named herbicide "Brush Killer" a mixture of 2,1*,5-T and
2,U-D?/ at the ratio of ltl6 in diesel oil*

It is expected as indicated that a high percentage of trees under all
treatments will be killed* However, the time factor and rate of decay is
significant* For example a large part of the foliage on Plot No* 5 was com-
pletely brown within 10 days of application ; within six months, in many cases*
the bark had split and begun to curl back from the base to the top of the
tree* A brief inspection at 16 months showed that large limbs were falling
and some of the smaller trees were down* The 3 percent reported in the column
"No noticeable effect" for Plot No* 5 actually represents two elms in the 2-
inch class* This may be the result of faulty application, since other elms in
this size class were killed as well as one li-inch elm, the largest on this
particular plot* Elm has given every indication of being the most difficult
species to kill of those tested*

Experiment B* which consists of Ik J-acre plots was set up to test
weaker solutions of the herbicides used in Experiment A with the same methods
of application* These are reacting much more slowly and the killing effect was
not taken* A complete report will be made on all plots in the second year after
application*

-'Sixteen pounds of acid equivalent per 100 gallons of carrier*

-/ IWenty-three and one-half pounds of acid equivalent per 100 gallons of
carrier*

-Ui-

DISCUSSICN

All research in this report has been devoted to graded strip
mined lands. In order to continue grading, it is necessary to know what
conditions are being formed and to have some idea of the productivity of
the land. Physical conditions and chemical reactions have been studied in
order to determine the ability of this material to support plant growth.
It has been shown that some crops are more adapted to newly graded area than
others and that certain crops, particularly legumes and grasses, should be
the first species seeded on a graded area. There is a strong indication, that
after a few years growth of legumes and grass, high yielding cash crops can
be grown, but a specie, such as corn, will not produce on newly graded areas.

However, one must remember that all spoil banks are not suit-
able for leveling. Much of the spoil areas will have to be utilized in
other ways.

There are four general types of reclamation that have been and will
continue to be used. Some areas are suitable only for wildlife and re-
creational areas. Others can be used for forestation. Still others can
be used for grass and legume pasture. Finally there are areas that are
suitable for leveling and for crop growth.

FUTURE PLANS

Much of the work now in progress will be continued. These will
include a detailed physical study, fertility requirements, and specie
adaptation.

In expanding these general phases of work, the physical study
will include physical measurements of the soil to determine what changes

the soil is undergoing under the factors of time and vegetation. Fertility
studies and specie adaptation, will be continued in order to determine what
fertility is required, if any, when different crops are grown either alone
or in a rotation.

-46-

cutlisee

I. Soil investigations

A. Soil tests

1. pH

2. Phosphorus

3. Potassium
k. Boron

B. Mechanical analysis

1. Graded spoil banks

2. Strata of the highva.ll

C. Permeability

1. Percolation

2. Volume weight

3. Pore space

II. Characteristics of the stratum in the highwall

A. Chemical analysis

B. Mechanical analysis

C. Vegetation

1. Greenhouse experiment
III. Forage Crops

A. Adaptation

1. Alfalfa variety study

B. Yield

C. Ferilizer
IV. Grain cro~-s

A. Wheat

1. ITurse crop

2. Yield

B. Soybeans

1. Fertilizer

J+7-
2. Disease
C. Corn

1. Fertilizer

2. Previous vegetation

3. Yield

V. Tree killing

A. Percent of kill
VI. Discussion
VII. Future -olans

-48-

Bibliography

1. Tuoyouces, G.J. A Recalibration of the hydrometer method for making

• Mechanic? 1 analysis of soils. ,7our. Amer. Soc. Agron. ^3:9:
kyi-l-Jft. September 1951.

2. The potentialities of revegetating and utilizing agronomic species

on strip mined areas in Illinois. The Fifth Annual Report. 1953
p. l£.

3. Guide for soil conservation surveys. USDA Soil Conservation Service.

19^8.

k, Baver, L. D., Soil Physics, pp. 16?-1' P , 19*! 8.

5. Van Dor en, C. A. and Klingebiel, A. A., Permeability studies on

some Illinois ^oils. USDA Soil Conservation Service. Washington
?5, D.C. April 1950.

6. Baver, L. D., Soil Physics, pp. 178-180.

7. Illinois State Geological Survey.

3. The potentialities of revegetating and utilizing agronomic species
on strip mined areas in Illinois. 1951*

9. Soybean Diserses in Illinois. University of Illinois College of

Agriculture Extension Service in Agriculture and Home Economics.
Circular 676.

10. Deithschman, Glenn and ITeckers, J. V. , CSFE Station. Submitted

for -Dublicetion.

EAT:mlm
3-7-53